In this episode of Waterfall, Mike is joined by Professor Benjamin Gardner from the University of Surrey to explore how smart shower technology is reshaping our understanding of everyday water use. Ben shares insights from a major research project that used sensor-based timers in student accommodation to track shower habits, reveal what drives long showers, and show how simple feedback can cut shower times by up to 43 percent. Together, they uncover how small nudges, smarter tech, and better awareness can help us save water, energy, and money without compromising comfort.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introductions and smart showers explained

01:03 – How smart shower sensors work

03:29 – The Surrey study and the impact of timers

06:06 – Why real-time feedback beats egg timers

09:15 – What the data reveals about shower habits

15:22 – Key findings, surprises, and future research

25:56 – Closing thoughts and personal water use

Show notes

Water meter calculator - CCW