Timers definitely have their perks, especially if you're cautious about safety like me. I installed one recently, and here's a quick tip: label the timer clearly or put up a small note nearby—saved my guests from confusion more than once. Moisture sensors sound intriguing, but I'm still a bit wary about reliability long-term. Good to hear yours worked out after some tweaking though...maybe I'll reconsider down the line. Either way, sounds like you've got a solid setup now.
"label the timer clearly or put up a small note nearby—saved my guests from confusion more than once."
Haha, totally agree with this! I learned the hard way after my in-laws spent 10 minutes fumbling around in the dark trying to figure out why the bathroom lights kept shutting off mid-shower. Let's just say family dinners were awkward for a while...
Timers are great, but I've actually had pretty decent luck with moisture sensors. Installed one about a year ago, and after some initial hiccups (mostly me misunderstanding the instructions...oops), it's been surprisingly reliable. The key, I think, is placement—mine was too close to the vent at first, causing it to shut off prematurely. Once I moved it slightly away from direct airflow, problem solved.
One thing I'd add: if you're going the sensor route, keep an eye on dust buildup. Mine started acting weird after about six months, and turns out it was just dust messing with the sensor's accuracy. A quick wipe-down every now and then keeps it happy.
Also, random side-note: anyone else find guests are weirdly fascinated by bathroom tech? I've had friends spend way too long asking questions about timers and sensors when they visit. Maybe I should start charging admission...
Sounds like you've nailed your setup though—always satisfying when a DIY project finally clicks into place.
Timers and sensors are handy, sure, but honestly I prefer a simple manual switch. Less troubleshooting, fewer confused guests, and no awkward explanations needed...sometimes low-tech just works better, you know?
I get what you're saying about manual switches—had a sensor installed in my guest bath, thinking it'd be convenient. But every time my parents visited, they'd wave their arms like crazy trying to trigger it...ended up swapping back to good old-fashioned switches. Lesson learned, haha.
Haha, sensors can really be hit or miss, huh? Did you find yours were too sensitive or not sensitive enough? I remember staying at an Airbnb once that had a sensor light in the bathroom, and it shut off mid-shower because the curtain blocked the sensor. Had to awkwardly wave around dripping water everywhere... Ever since then, I've stuck with manual switches—just feels safer and more reliable to me. Did your parents ever get used to it or just kept struggling?
