Electric Showers

How does an electric shower work?

An electric shower is a type of shower that heats water directly as it flows through the unit, without the need for a separate hot water storage tank or boiler. Here’s a brief overview of how an electric shower works:

1. Water Supply: Electric showers are connected to the cold water mains supply in your home. When you turn on the shower, cold water flows into the unit.
2. Heating Element: Inside the electric shower unit, there is a heating element that heats the water. The heating element is usually an electric coil or a heating element similar to that found in an electric kettle.
3. Temperature Control: Electric showers have a temperature control dial or buttons that allow you to adjust the desired water temperature. When you set the temperature, the electric shower unit activates the heating element to heat the water to the desired temperature.
4. Flow Control: Electric showers also have a flow control mechanism that allows you to adjust the water flow rate. You can increase or decrease the water flow to achieve the desired shower experience.
5. Safety Features: Electric showers are equipped with safety features such as thermal cut-outs and pressure relief devices to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation.
6. Instant Hot Water: As the cold water flows through the heating element, it gets heated instantly, providing you with a constant supply of hot water as long as the shower is running.
7. Mixing with Cold Water: To achieve the desired temperature, you can mix the hot water from the electric shower with cold water by adjusting the temperature control dial or buttons.

It’s important to note that electric showers are independent of your central heating system and do not rely on a boiler or hot water storage tank. They are a self-contained unit that provides hot water on-demand, making them a convenient option for households without a traditional hot water system or for areas where hot water supply may be limited.

It’s recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance of your specific electric shower model to ensure safe and optimal performance.

What are the benefits of an electric shower?

Electric showers offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for many homeowners. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Instant Hot Water: One of the main benefits of an electric shower is that it provides instant hot water on-demand. There is no need to wait for a hot water storage tank to heat up, as the water is heated directly as it flows through the shower unit. This means you can enjoy a hot shower whenever you want, regardless of the availability or capacity of your hot water system.
2. Independence from Central Heating System: Electric showers are independent of your central heating system. They have their own heating element, which means you can use them even if your central heating system is turned off or undergoing maintenance. This makes electric showers a reliable source of hot water throughout the year.
3. Energy Efficiency: Electric showers are generally considered to be energy-efficient. They only heat the water that is needed for each shower, eliminating the need to heat and store large quantities of hot water in a tank. This can result in energy savings compared to systems that require continuous heating of a hot water storage tank.
4. Cost-Effective: Electric showers are typically more affordable to purchase and install compared to other types of showers, such as mixer showers or power showers. They have a relatively simple installation process, as they don’t require connections to a hot water storage tank or boiler. This makes them a cost-effective option, especially if you don’t already have a hot water system in place.
5. Easy Installation: Installing an electric shower is generally straightforward. Since they don’t rely on a hot water storage tank or a boiler, there is no need for extensive plumbing work. Electric showers can be easily connected to the cold water mains supply, making them a convenient choice for new installations or bathroom renovations.
6. Temperature Control: Electric showers typically have temperature control features, allowing you to adjust the water temperature to your preference. This gives you the flexibility to have a comfortable and enjoyable shower experience by selecting the desired level of warmth.
7. Water Pressure: Electric showers can often provide a consistent water pressure, regardless of the water pressure in your home’s plumbing system. They have built-in pumps that help regulate the water flow, ensuring a steady and satisfying shower experience.

It’s worth noting that the water temperature of an electric shower may be affected if other appliances or taps are used simultaneously, as the water flow rate may be divided. Additionally, the performance of an electric shower can be influenced by the available electrical supply in your home, so it’s important to ensure that your electrical system meets the requirements of the specific electric shower model.

Overall, electric showers offer convenience, flexibility, and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for an independent and cost-effective solution for their hot water needs.

Are electric showers suitable for low water pressure systems?

Yes, electric showers are generally suitable for low water pressure systems. In fact, they are often recommended as a solution to address low water pressure issues in households. Here’s why electric showers can be a suitable choice for low water pressure systems:

1. Built-in Pump: Electric showers have built-in pumps that help regulate the water flow. These pumps can boost the pressure of the incoming cold water, ensuring a consistent and satisfying shower experience even in areas with low water pressure.
2. Independent Operation: Electric showers are independent of the existing plumbing system and hot water supply in your home. They heat the water as it flows through the unit, so they are not reliant on the water pressure provided by the existing hot water system. This means that even if the hot water supply has low pressure, the electric shower can still provide a decent flow rate and enjoyable showering experience.
3. Self-Heating: Electric showers heat the water internally, so they are not dependent on the temperature or pressure of the hot water supply. They can provide a consistent water temperature regardless of the hot water pressure in your home. This is beneficial in low water pressure systems where the hot water supply may not be sufficient for a comfortable shower.
4. Water Saving: Electric showers are designed to be water-efficient. They mix the cold water supply with the hot water they generate, allowing you to achieve the desired temperature and flow rate without wasting excessive amounts of water. This can be particularly advantageous in areas with low water pressure, as it helps maximize the available water supply.

While electric showers can improve the showering experience in low water pressure systems, it’s important to note that the overall performance can still be influenced by the specific level of water pressure in your home. It’s recommended to check the technical specifications of the electric shower you are considering to ensure that it is suitable for the minimum water pressure available in your area. Manufacturers usually provide information on the minimum required water pressure for optimal operation.

Additionally, if you have concerns about water pressure or your existing plumbing system, it’s advisable to consult with a plumber or a professional to assess your specific situation and determine the most suitable showering solution for your needs.

At Plumb and Bath Store, we offer a wide range of electric showers to suit every budget and style. Our collection includes models from top brands like Triton, Mira, and Bristan, so you can be sure you’re getting a high-quality product that will last for years to come.

Whether you’re looking for a simple and affordable electric shower or a more advanced model with features like thermostatic control and multiple spray patterns, we have something to suit your needs. Our electric showers come in a variety of finishes, including chrome, white, and black, so you can choose the perfect one to match your bathroom decor.

With our fast and reliable delivery service, you can have your new electric shower installed and ready to use in no time. So why wait? Browse our collection today and find the perfect electric shower for your home.

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