Cozy Low-Energy Shower

Step 12 B) Pedal Control: The Pedal

Cut the pedal to size. Since it's small, and the dimensions aren't critical, you can use pretty much whatever kind of hand saw or power saw you are familiar and comfortable with. Sand or file any sharp or rough corners or edges. Drill a hole in the center of one end, just a little bigger than the cord you will use, about 1/2 inch from the edge.

If you are using wood, sand it smooth and finish it. To get a truly waterproof finish using non-toxic materials, I used tung oil and de-waxed shellac, as described in step 25. If you use a different finish, follow the instructions that come with it.

Cut a piece of cord about a foot longer than the distance from the floor to the valve. Put one end through the hole in the pedal and tie a knot in the cord so it can't pull through the hole. Then tie the other end to the ring. It might take a few tries to get the length adjusted just right so that the valve opens all the way when the pedal is pulled to the floor. Be sure it's not too short--you don't want to pull the pipes out of the wall if you step on it hard!