HOW TO CHOOSE AN ELECTRIC SHOWER – Nearly all of us prefer a nice refreshing shower, as it takes less time, uses far less water than taking a bath and is much cheaper compared to having a bath.
If you’ve ever looked at the range of electric showers available, you’ll know that there is a lot of choice. So, if you want to buy an electric shower, which one do you buy? In this handy guide we’ll explain the different types available to help you choose an electric shower suitable for your home.
Step 1
Before buying an electric shower you need to determine if you have a High or Low Water Pressure System. This will determine the type of shower to fit. A quick way to find out this is to take a Pint Glass and fill it from the kitchen sink. If it takes 3 seconds or less to fill, then you have a High Pressure System. If it takes much longer, then you have a Low Pressure System.
Step 2
High Pressure System – You can install an electric shower that is mains water fed.
Step 3
Low Pressure System – You will need to install an electric shower that is main and pump fed. This will require you to install a shower pump,
Step 4
Cold Water Mains Fed Shower – This type of electric shower is connected directly to the mains cold water and is heated by an electrical element as it passes through the shower unit. This will produce as much hot water for as long as you want as it does not draw hot water from the hot water tank. The benefit of this is that you don’t waste energy heating the water in a tank and only heat what you need.
Step 5
Tank Fed Pump Showers – This type of electric shower is also connected directly to the mains cold water, although it passes through a pump to create sufficient pressure. Again the water is heated by an electrical element as it passes through the shower unit and will produce as much hot water as you need and does not feed from the hot water tank. If you have a Low Pressure System this type of shower is designed just for this job. Choose a higher Kilowatt rating for better performance.
Step 6
Mixed Shower – This type of electric shower uses pipes from the HOT and COLD tanks and then mixes them together in the shower unit. The temperature is controlled by a thermostat dial on the shower unit. Remember that because this type of unit is connected to the hot water tank you won’t have an endless supply of hot water and the hot water tank will take time to refill and heat.
Acknowledgements: Video – WoodiesDIY.com
