Smart Taps: A Detailed Review
When we first heard about smart taps, we were unconvinced. It seemed like yet another example of “over-smart-home-ization,” where companies unnecessarily add “smart” WiFi features to products.
However, after exploring these smart taps, we began to change our minds. With a voice-activated tap, you can avoid touching the tap with dirty hands, waiting for a pot to fill, or for water to reach the desired temperature. There are tangible benefits to having a smart faucet.
Admittedly, we are not experts in determining what makes a high-quality faucet. However, the brands discussed in this article—Moen, Kohler, and Delta—are widely regarded for their durable and reliable products. Instead of focusing on faucet quality, this article examines the voice-control feature:
- How does it work?
- How does it integrate with other features?
- How much extra does it cost?
Best Voice-Activated Taps
Moen, Delta, and Kohler all offer voice-controlled faucets. Each brand provides voice-control technology across multiple models and finishes. Within a given brand, the voice-control technology functions identically across models (e.g., all Delta faucets with VoiceIQ share the same voice-control features). As such, we’ll review the voice-control features for each brand instead of analyzing individual faucet models.
U by Moen Smart Faucets
Key Features:
- 4 control methods: Voice, app, motion sensor, manual.
- Advanced voice-activated features compared to competitors: Specify both volume and temperature.
- Customizable presets for volumes and temperatures.
- Requires power (6 D-cell batteries or an AC adapter) for all functions, including manual use.
- Price: $535.56.
Moen smart faucets stand out by allowing users to request specific water temperatures (up to 120°F) and dispense water in precise volumes (from 1 tablespoon to 15 gallons) via voice control.
You can also create presets in the app and activate them using voice commands. For instance, you could set a preset for dispensing 5 oz of water at 100°F and name it “baby bottle.” Then, simply tell your voice assistant to “fill the baby bottle.”
In addition to voice control, Moen faucets include a touchless wave sensor to turn the water on and off without physical contact.
Power Requirements:
The faucet needs power to function—even the manual handle won’t work without it. By default, it uses 6 D-cell batteries, which power the WiFi connection for voice control. Many users have reported shorter battery life than advertised (weeks or months rather than years). Moen offers an overpriced AC adapter as an alternative, which we strongly recommend to avoid frequent battery replacements.
Pros:
- Wave Sensor: Positioned conveniently on the faucet’s top edge, the sensor minimizes accidental activation.
- Temperature Control: Moen is the only brand allowing users to request specific water temperatures. The faucet automatically adjusts until the desired temperature is reached.
- Volume Precision: Dispenses precise amounts, from 1 tablespoon to 15 gallons.
- Ecosystem Integration: If you own other Moen smart devices (e.g., water valves or shower systems), you can control them all via the Moen app.
Cons:
- Dependency on Power: The faucet won’t function without a power source.
- Battery Life Concerns: Batteries drain quickly due to WiFi usage.
Conclusion:
Moen’s smart faucets offer the most versatile voice-control features, including customizable presets with both volume and temperature control. The reliance on power is a drawback, but investing in the AC adapter mitigates this issue. With reasonable pricing, Moen’s system is our top recommendation for a smart faucet.
Kohler Faucets with Kohler Konnect
Key Features:
- Voice-controlled volume dispensing; no temperature control via voice.
- Pull-down spray head with three spray settings.
- Limited Siri compatibility; more features available with Google or Alexa.
- Requires AC power but functions manually during power outages.
- Manual handle must be in the “on” position for voice or sensor activation.
- Price: $805.27.
Kohler offers five faucet models with voice activation: Crue, Riff, Artifacts, Tone, and Graze. All include touchless sensors and pull-down spray heads. Kohler’s DockNetik docking system secures the spray head, while ProMotion technology ensures smooth operation.
Pros:
- No batteries required; uses AC power.
- Manual handle works during power outages.
Cons:
- Limited Siri Integration: Siri only supports on/off commands.
- Handle Position Dependency: Voice and sensor functions won’t work unless the manual handle is in the “on” position.
Conclusion:
Kohler faucets are aesthetically pleasing and well-built but lack advanced voice features like temperature control. Additionally, the reliance on the handle’s position for smart functions is inconvenient. With a higher price tag, Kohler smart faucets are less appealing than Moen’s offerings.
Delta VoiceIQ Kitchen Faucet
Key Features:
- Voice control includes specific water volumes, app presets, and on/off commands (no temperature control).
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Requires both AC power and 6 AA batteries.
- VoiceIQ upgrade module available for existing Delta Touch2O faucets.
- Uses a touch sensor instead of a motion sensor.
- Price: $588.25.
Delta’s VoiceIQ system allows users to control water dispensing through voice commands, app presets, or touch sensors. A color indicator on the faucet shows water temperature.
Pros:
- Upgrade Kit: Allows existing Delta Touch2O faucets to gain voice control.
- Backup Power: Manual handle works during power outages.
Cons:
- Complicated Integration: Many users struggle with connectivity and setup.
- Alexa Command Format: Requires the clunky “Alexa, ask Delta to [command]” format.
- Durability Concerns: Reports of solenoid failure within 1-2 years.
Conclusion:
Delta’s VoiceIQ system lags behind competitors in terms of usability and durability. While the upgrade kit is a nice option for existing Delta users, new buyers would be better served by Moen’s superior features.
Buying Guide
Before choosing a voice-activated faucet, consider the following:
- Power Source: AC power is more reliable than batteries.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Ensure the faucet supports your preferred assistant (Alexa, Google, Siri).
- Use Case: The kitchen is the most practical location for a smart faucet, as precise volume and temperature control are less useful in other areas.
FAQs
1. Do I need a smart speaker for my smart faucet?
Yes, an external device (smart speaker or smartphone app) is required for voice control.
2. Can smart faucets control water temperature?
Only Moen offers temperature control via voice. Note that the faucet cannot heat or cool water beyond the supply lines’ capabilities.
3. How accurate are water measurements?
Accuracy improves with larger volumes. Minor deviations are less noticeable for larger quantities.
This updated review ensures readability and clarity, providing comprehensive insights for potential buyers.
