The U by Moen Smart Shower is a technologically advanced shower system that combines digital controls with flexible installation options. Designed to offer a customizable and user-friendly experience, this smart shower system requires precise installation to ensure optimal performance. The following article provides a detailed breakdown of the installation process, technical specifications, and key considerations for users in the United States. All information is derived from official installation and product documentation provided by Moen.
Installation Preparation
Before beginning the installation of the U by Moen Smart Shower, several preparatory steps must be completed to ensure compatibility and ease of setup. These include assessing the location of the electrical outlet, determining the placement of the digital valve, and evaluating the strength of the WiFi signal in the installation area.
The digital valve does not need to be placed directly behind the shower wall, offering greater flexibility. It can be installed up to 30 feet away from the controller, provided there is access to a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) power outlet. This distance allows for more strategic placement of components within the bathroom or adjacent areas.
Additionally, the number of shower outlets intended for use must be considered. The U by Moen Smart Shower system supports various configurations, including a rain showerhead, handshower, and one set of body sprays. These configurations affect both the physical layout and the data cable routing during installation.
Power and Electrical Connections
A critical component of the installation is connecting the AC power adapter. The power adapter must be plugged into an AC outlet located within 5 feet (152 cm) of the shower valve to ensure a stable power supply. The power plug is inserted into a port located underneath the shower valve, ensuring continuous operation of the digital system.
To install the power adapter, it is recommended that the AC outlet be placed within the wood studs of the wall to maintain a clean and secure installation. This placement also helps prevent interference with the waterproof data cable and ensures the system remains dry and protected from potential water damage.
Mounting the Controller
The U by Moen Smart Shower digital controller must be mounted on a finished wall, either inside the shower or on an easily accessible wall adjacent to the shower. The recommended minimum space for the controller is 10 x 6 inches. It is advised to mount the controller in an in-shower location for convenience and aesthetic integration.
The controller can only be mounted in a horizontal position, and the installation process involves a mounting bracket that is secured to the wall. The bracket requires a 1-inch hole for the data cable to pass through, and a bead of silicone caulking should be applied along the groove of the bracket before adhering it to the wall. The bracket is then secured with screws, and the level should be checked to ensure proper alignment.
Once the mounting bracket is in place, the data cable is connected between the controller and the digital valve. The data cable should be fed through the bracket opening and secured with a data cable retainer to prevent it from falling back into the wall. The controller is then attached to the bracket and slid into place, completing the mounting process.
Valve Installation and Orientation
The digital valve is installed prior to the controller and must be oriented correctly to ensure proper function. The valve must be mounted with the proper orientation as outlined in the installation guide, which is essential for the correct flow of water and data between the valve and controller.
To prepare the valve for installation, both shut-off valve handles must be turned to the off position. This step is necessary for both installation and future servicing of the shower system. The valve is supplied in the open position to allow for pressure testing of the connections, but the controller is not required for this testing phase.
Flexible connections should be made at the water inlet and outlet lines to allow for valve servicing without disrupting the entire installation. Any unused outlets should be plugged to prevent water leakage or system malfunction.
Water Requirements and Safety
For the U by Moen Smart Shower to function properly, specific water conditions must be met. The system requires a minimum incoming temperature of 40°F (5°C) and a maximum of 149°F (65°C). The minimum incoming pressure is 20 psi, while the maximum incoming pressure must not exceed 125 psi. The maximum outlet temperature is set to 115°F, and this limit cannot be adjusted higher than 120°F. The digital valve is designed to prevent the user from exceeding this temperature threshold, ensuring safety and compliance with standard water heating regulations.
These specifications are critical for the system to operate efficiently and safely. Failure to meet these requirements may result in suboptimal performance or system damage.
Controller Setup and Configuration
Once the physical installation is complete, the digital controller requires setup to ensure it is configured for the user’s preferences. The setup process includes selecting the language, time zone, water temperature scale (Fahrenheit or Celsius), and enabling the water-saving mode. These settings are detailed in the How To Use section of the product documentation.
The controller setup should be performed after the hardware has been fully installed and secured. This ensures that all connections are stable and that the controller can communicate effectively with the digital valve. Users are advised to follow the installation guide closely during this phase to avoid misconfiguration or system errors.
Support and Additional Installation Tips
During the installation process, a 2” × 4” wood support is recommended for mounting the controller at a height of approximately 60 inches. This support provides a stable base for the controller and helps prevent misalignment or damage during installation. The support should be secured with wood screws, and a 1¼” hole should be drilled through the center to accommodate the data cable.
It is also important to ensure that the data cable is properly routed through the wall and does not fall behind the mounting bracket. A retainer should be attached to the controller end of the cable to prevent it from shifting or becoming dislodged during use.
Controller Mounting Bracket Installation
The mounting bracket for the controller is a key component of the installation. Before attaching the bracket to the wall, a 1-inch hole should be drilled in the finished wall to allow the data cable to pass through. The bracket should be leveled and marked for the two 3/16” drill holes that will secure it in place. Only the finished wall should be drilled through, and the bracket should be set aside until the silicone caulking is applied.
Once the bracket is installed, the data cable is connected from the controller to the digital valve. The data cable is then fed back into the wall through the mounting bracket, and the controller is attached as shown in the installation diagram. The controller should be fully engaged by sliding it down into place to ensure a secure fit.
Data Cable and Valve Connection
The data cable is a critical link between the controller and the digital valve. The cable must be connected to the valve first, with the connector end properly attached. The data cable is then guided through the hole in the wood support and secured with a retainer at the controller end to prevent it from falling back into the wall.
At the valve end, the data cable is inserted into the data port at the bottom of the valve. This connection ensures that the controller can communicate with the valve and regulate water flow and temperature settings.
Post-Installation Considerations
After the installation is complete, it is important to verify that all components are functioning correctly. The digital controller should be tested to ensure it can control the water flow and temperature settings as intended. Additionally, the WiFi signal strength should be tested to ensure that the controller can connect to the home network and operate remotely if applicable.
Users are encouraged to refer to the installation and user guides for any troubleshooting steps or additional configuration options. These resources provide detailed instructions for optimizing the system’s performance and ensuring long-term reliability.
Conclusion
The U by Moen Smart Shower offers a sophisticated and user-friendly experience through its digital controller and flexible installation options. By following the detailed installation instructions provided in the official documentation, users can ensure that the system is set up correctly and functions optimally. The system’s water requirements and safety features further enhance its reliability and usability, making it an ideal choice for modern bathrooms.
Proper preparation, attention to technical specifications, and adherence to installation guidelines are essential for achieving the best results. Whether for a DIY enthusiast or a professional installer, the U by Moen Smart Shower provides a seamless and customizable shower experience when installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.