Can You Put a Timer on a Shower? Yes — and It’s Easier Than You Think

Can You Put a Timer on a Shower?

Short answer: Yes, you absolutely can put a timer on a shower—and you don’t need a plumber to do it.

If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a simple way to limit shower time, save water, or stop long showers from throwing off your family’s schedule, a shower timer with a shut-off valve is the most effective solution available.

This guide walks you through exactly how to install a timer on your shower, using the Shower Wizard, a device designed to install between your shower stem (arm) and shower head—no cutting pipes, no permanent changes.

Why Most Shower Timers Don’t Actually Work

Many shower timers only beep or flash, which is easy to ignore—especially in a steamy bathroom with music playing. The difference with the Shower Wizard is that it includes a built-in shut-off valve, meaning when time is up, the water actually stops.

That’s why people searching “can you put a timer on a shower” often end up here—it’s one of the few solutions that truly controls shower length instead of just suggesting it.

Where the Shower Timer Installs

The Shower Wizard installs inline, right where your shower head already connects:

Shower arm (wall stem) → Shower Wizard → Shower head

That’s it.

No electrical wiring.
No plumbing modifications.
No tools required (a wrench is optional).

How to Install a Timer on Your Shower (Step-by-Step)

Make Sure the Water Is Off

Before you begin, confirm your shower handles are fully turned off.

Step 1: Remove Your Existing Shower Head

Unscrew your shower head from the shower arm coming out of the wall. This is usually hand-tight and takes less than a minute.

Step 2: Install the Shower Wizard

Hand-tighten the Shower Wizard onto the shower arm.

  • Keep the lens facing outward

  • Position it slightly above the valve

  • Avoid over-tightening

Step 3: Reattach the Shower Head

Screw your shower head onto the bottom of the Shower Wizard, holding the valve steady while tightening.

Step 4: Install the Activator Button

  • Clean a small area near the shower entrance

  • Stick the included adhesive pad to the wall

  • Press the activator button firmly into place
    This button starts, pauses, and resumes the shower timer.

That’s the entire installation—most people finish in under 5 minutes.

What Happens After Installation?

The Shower Wizard comes pre-programmed with:

  • 8-minute shower time

  • 5-minute lockout period

Here’s how it works:

  • Green light: Normal shower time

  • Yellow light: Last minute warning

  • Red light: Water shuts off during lockout

You can also pause the water mid-shower, then resume when ready—perfect for shaving or lathering.

Can You Customize the Shower Time?

Yes. Shower Wizard allows full customization:

  • Shower time: 1–99 minutes

  • Lockout time: 1–99 minutes

This makes it ideal for:

  • Families with kids or teens

  • Rentals or shared bathrooms

  • Anyone trying to save water or energy

Do You Need a Plumber to Install a Shower Timer?

No. That’s the biggest misconception.

Because the Shower Wizard installs between the shower head and the shower stem, it’s considered a non-permanent, renter-friendly upgrade. If you ever move, simply unscrew it and take it with you.

Final Answer: Can You Put a Timer on a Shower?

Yes—and it’s one of the easiest bathroom upgrades you can make.

If you’re looking for:

  • A real shower timer (not just an alarm)

  • Automatic water shut-off

  • Simple DIY installation

  • No plumbing or wiring

Installing a timer on your shower with the Shower Wizard is the most practical solution available.