Installing an electric shower is a complex job that requires both plumbing and electrical expertise. Whether you're replacing an old electric shower or installing a new one, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We'll cover the tools required, step-by-step instructions, safety considerations, and when it's best to call in professional plumbers in Exeter.
Understanding Electric Showers
Electric showers work by heating cold water on demand as it passes through the unit, offering several advantages over mixer showers. They don't require a hot water tank or boiler, making them ideal for homes with limited hot water supply or as a backup when the boiler fails.
Types of Electric Showers
Standard Electric Showers
Basic models with simple dial controls for temperature and flow rate. Ideal for straightforward installations and typically available in power ratings from 7.5kW to 10.5kW.
Digital Electric Showers
Feature digital displays and precise temperature control. Some models offer programmable settings for multiple users and can be controlled via smartphone apps.
Thermostatic Electric Showers
Maintain a consistent water temperature regardless of water pressure changes in your home, offering additional safety and comfort.
Power Showers
Combine an electric heating element with a pump to boost water pressure. Perfect for homes with low water pressure but requiring both hot and cold water feeds.
Understanding Requirements
Important Safety Note
Electric shower installation involves both water and electricity, creating potential risks if not handled correctly. In the UK, electrical work in bathrooms must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations and should be performed by a qualified electrician.
Electrical Requirements
- Dedicated circuit from the consumer unit (fuse box)
- Appropriate circuit breaker (MCB) - typically 40-45 amps for 8.5-9.5kW showers
- Correct cable sizing (usually 10mm² for modern showers)
- RCD (Residual Current Device) protection
- Ceiling-mounted pull cord switch (in compliance with bathroom electrical zones)
Plumbing Requirements
- Cold water feed (ideally direct from the mains supply)
- Minimum water pressure requirements (check manufacturer specifications)
- Isolation valve for maintenance
- 15mm or 22mm pipework depending on the shower unit
- Proper drainage connection
Tools and Materials Needed
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
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Preparation Steps
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Choose the right electric shower:
Select a shower with appropriate power rating for your needs. Higher kW ratings (9.5kW+) provide better water flow and heating performance but require suitable electrical supply.
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Check your water pressure:
Most electric showers require a minimum of 1 bar water pressure to function properly. Contact your water supplier or use a pressure gauge to check your home's water pressure.
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Plan the layout:
Determine where pipes and electrical cables will run. Consider the proximity to the consumer unit and the ease of routing the water supply.
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Turn off utilities:
Before starting any work, turn off both the water supply and the electricity at the consumer unit. Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
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Arrange professional help if needed:
Consider hiring a qualified electrician for the electrical aspects of the installation, especially if you're not confident or certified to perform this work.
Pro Tip
If you're replacing an existing electric shower, take photos of the current installation before dismantling it. This will provide a useful reference for the wiring and plumbing connections during the installation of the new unit.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these detailed steps to install your electric shower properly. Remember that electrical work should be performed by a qualified electrician in compliance with current regulations.
Removing an Old Shower (If Applicable)
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Turn off utilities:
- Isolate the electrical supply at the consumer unit
- Turn off the water supply to the shower
- Verify power is off using a voltage tester
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Disconnect electrical connections:
- Remove the shower cover according to manufacturer instructions
- Take photos of the existing wiring for reference
- Disconnect the electrical cables, noting the positions
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Disconnect water supply:
- Use a towel to catch any residual water
- Disconnect the shower from the water pipe
- Cap the pipe temporarily if needed
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Remove unit from wall:
- Unscrew the unit from the wall
- Carefully remove it, mindful of any cables or pipes
- Clean the wall area in preparation for the new unit
Installing a New Electric Shower
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Position and mark the new unit:
- Use the template provided with your shower unit
- Mark the position of screw holes and cable/pipe entries
- Ensure the unit is level using a spirit level
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Prepare the wall:
- Drill holes for screws using appropriate drill bits
- If needed, drill holes for water and electrical connections
- Insert wall plugs into the drilled holes
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Connect the water supply:
- Install an isolation valve if there isn't one already
- Use PTFE tape on threaded connections to prevent leaks
- Connect the water supply pipe to the unit's inlet
- Secure the pipe with clips if running along the wall
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Mount the shower unit:
- Partially screw in the top screws
- Hang the unit on these screws
- Insert and tighten the remaining screws
- Ensure the unit is securely fastened and level
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Connect the electrical supply:
- Feed the electrical cable through the cable entry point
- Connect the live, neutral, and earth wires to the terminal block
- Ensure connections are tight and secure
- Clamp the cable inside the unit to prevent strain
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Complete plumbing connections:
- Ensure all connections are tight
- Apply silicone sealant around pipe and cable entry points
- Install the shower head rail according to instructions
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Test for leaks:
- Turn on the water supply slowly
- Check all connections for leaks
- Tighten any connections if necessary
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Complete installation and test:
- Fit the shower cover according to manufacturer instructions
- Attach the shower hose and handset
- Turn on the electrical supply at the consumer unit
- Turn on the shower at the pull cord switch
- Run the shower on cold setting first to flush out any debris
Electrical Safety Testing
After installation, a qualified electrician should perform the following safety tests to ensure the installation complies with UK regulations:
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Visual inspection:
Check that all connections are correctly made and that the unit is properly earthed.
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Continuity testing:
Verify that the earthing conductor is continuous.
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Insulation resistance test:
Ensure the insulation between live and neutral conductors to earth is intact.
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Polarity check:
Confirm that the live and neutral connections are correctly oriented.
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RCD functionality test:
Test that the RCD trips within the required time when a fault is simulated.
Legal Requirement
In the UK, electrical work in bathrooms must be certified with a Minor Works Certificate or Building Regulations Compliance Certificate. Without proper certification, you may face issues when selling your property or with insurance claims if problems occur.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power to shower |
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Check consumer unit, ensure pull cord is on, verify connections (electrical work by qualified electrician only) |
| Water not heating |
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Increase power setting, reduce flow rate, consider professional inspection for heating element issues |
| Low water pressure |
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Clean shower head in descaler solution, check for hose kinks, verify water pressure meets minimum requirements |
| Leaking connections |
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Tighten connections, add PTFE tape to threaded connections, replace washers if worn |
| Fluctuating temperature |
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Consider installing a thermostatic shower, check water pressure stability, ensure dedicated electrical circuit |
When to Call a Professional
While DIY shower installation is possible for those with plumbing and electrical experience, many situations warrant calling a professional:
- You lack electrical qualification or experience (legal requirement for bathroom electrical work)
- The installation requires new electrical circuits or significant modifications
- You need to change the position of the shower or create new pipe runs
- Your home has a complicated plumbing system or low water pressure
- You need to upgrade from a lower power rating to a higher one
- You want to ensure compliance with building regulations
- You need a warranty-backed installation
Professional Electric Shower Installation in Exeter
Our professional plumbers in Exeter specialize in electric shower installations. We provide:
- Qualified electricians and plumbers working as a team
- Full compliance with Part P Building Regulations
- Proper certification for all electrical work
- Expert advice on the most suitable shower for your home
- Warranty-backed installations
- Clean, tidy workmanship with minimal disruption
For a free, no-obligation quote on electric shower installation in Exeter and surrounding areas, contact our team today.
Conclusion
Installing an electric shower requires careful planning and consideration of both plumbing and electrical requirements. While it can be a DIY project for those with experience, the safety implications and legal requirements often make professional installation the wiser choice.
A properly installed electric shower can provide years of reliable service and improve your bathroom experience significantly. Whether you choose to attempt the installation yourself or hire professionals, this guide has provided the essential information you need to understand the process and make informed decisions.
For expert electric shower installation in Exeter, contact our team of qualified plumbers and electricians who can ensure your new shower is installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulations.
