How to Save Water and Money: A Review of the IKEA BERGVATTNET Shower Water Meter
- Derek Reilly
- May 2
- 3 min read
In an era where energy prices and water conservation are at the forefront of every homeowner's mind, small changes in the bathroom can lead to significant savings. Enter the IKEA BERGVATTNET, a specialised water meter designed to bring "gamification" and transparency to your daily shower routine.
Whether you're trying to lower your utility bills or simply want to be more environmentally conscious, this limited-edition gadget from IKEA’s bathroom series offers a simple yet effective solution. In this article, we’ll explore the features, installation, and real-world performance of the BERGVATTNET based on months of testing.
What is the IKEA BERGVATTNET Water Meter?
Part of a broader water-saving initiative by IKEA, the BERGVATTNET is a digital meter that attaches directly to your shower setup. Designed by Marcus Arvone, the device is constructed from durable poly and ABS plastics, powered by two AA batteries.
Unlike high-tech smart home devices that require complex hubs, the BERGVATTNET is a standalone unit. It doesn't connect to Wi-Fi or Home Assistant; instead, it focuses on providing immediate, actionable data right where you need it most—the shower.
Key Features and Functionality
The BERGVATTNET performs three primary functions that rotate on its digital display while the water is running:
Temperature Monitoring: When you first turn on the water, the meter displays the current temperature. This is incredibly useful for knowing exactly when your shower has reached your preferred heat level without having to "test" the water with your hand.
Water Usage (Litres): The device tracks the total volume of water used during your session. Seeing the liters climb in real-time is a powerful visual motivator to finish up sooner.
Time Elapsed: It tracks exactly how long the water has been running.
One of the smartest design elements is how the screen behaves once the temperature stabilizes. Once your set temperature is reached, the screen stops focusing on the heat and begins cycling between the liter count and the time.
Installation and Versatility
The BERGVATTNET is designed for easy DIY installation. It can be mounted in several ways depending on your shower configuration:
On the Shower Head: You can attach it directly to the base of a movable shower head.
Between the Mixer and Hose: For those with fixed rain showers or different setups, it can be mounted further up the line to track all water passing through the system.
The device also features a clever "sleep mode." If you turn the water off to lather up, the meter pauses its count for up to two minutes. When you turn the water back on, it remembers exactly where you left off, ensuring your total session data is accurate.
The "Gamification" of Water Saving
The real value of the BERGVATTNET isn't just in the data—it's in the psychological shift it creates. By making water usage visible, it turns a mindless daily habit into a challenge.
Many users find that family members—even those initially skeptical of the "gadget"—begin to compete with themselves to lower their liter count or finish their shower faster. It’s a "smarter" approach to living that doesn't require complex automation, but rather, better information.
Price and Availability
The BERGVATTNET is often released as a limited-edition run. In markets like Ireland, it has been seen on clearance for as low as €29 (down from €39), while in the UK, it typically retails around £35. Given its ability to help reduce both water and heating costs, the device can effectively pay for itself within a few months.
Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?
While smart home enthusiasts might miss the lack of app connectivity, the simplicity of the IKEA BERGVATTNET is its greatest strength. It’s an affordable, easy-to-install tool that provides immediate feedback to help you save money and resources.
If you are looking for a way to make your household more sustainable without a major renovation, the BERGVATTNET is a fantastic place to start.
Watch the Full Review
Want to see how the display looks in action and hear the "sleep mode" functionality explained in detail? Watch the full hands-on review from Smart Home Tested below:
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