I stumbled towards the master bath with its stand-up shower and glass walls, something I had insisted on before moving in. I think my credit rating must have factored in their decision, as well as my stellar rental history, but regardless of that I was delighted and signed a multiyear lease. I turned the hot water faucet to the left to start the flow and then stepped back to prevent a blast of cold water from waking me faster than I wanted to.

Once I stepped into the warm torrent coming from the square spay head mounted on the ceiling, I sighed deeply. I have always found hot showers wonderful...