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Showers have become modern-day sanctuaries for providing a reinvigorating experience to start your day and relieve the chaotic day-long struggle. If you want your bathroom and especially the shower to uplift your mood and refresh your mind with every session, you may want to consider revamping your shower space.
Yes, there's more to showers than the chrome lever taps and pressure water sprinklers. You may need to delve into the nitty gritty of domestic water systems to find the appropriate shower and make it a healthy part of your life.
In this bathroom shower buying guide we have curated everything you need to consider when buying the right shower for your bathroom.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Bathroom Shower
Before you start scouring through the market for the perfect high-quality new shower for your bathroom, you need to consider these pre-installation factors:
Water Pressure
Knowing the water pressure in your home will help you narrow down on the type of shower you need to buy. Bathrooms with higher water pressure can go along with a mixer shower, but electric showers would serve perfectly if your household experiences inconsistent and low water pressure.
An easier way to determine the water pressure is by checking the water outflow from different outlets in your home. If you are replacing the older shower, you'd know the outflowing pressure of the shower. Moreover, you can also gauge the pressure by noting the time your toilet cistern takes to refill or how quickly it fills your bath. 15 liters per minute is considered a higher-pressure outflow of water.
Hot Water System
The water heating system in your house also determines the pressure of water that flows through your shower. Here are some common water heating systems found in most households;
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Gravity Fed System:
The Gravity Fed System is measured through two main factors; the water pressure in the main water lines and the distance between the water tank and your shower tank. These two factors combined to impact the water pressure exiting your water outlets. -
Combi Boiler System:
A popular system in modern households, combi boilers use high-pressure vented water systems that prevent the need to adjust or increase the water pressure by installing electric pumps. -
Unvented System:
Households with no specialized cold water tank mounted in the attic normally depend on a separate metal-clad hot water tank and wall-hung boiler. These ensure the availability of hot water in larger volumes to all outlets.
Bathroom Layout
Your bathroom layout plays a major role in identifying the type of bathroom that suits the available space perfectly. To clearly understand the available space, you need to measure the room's dimensions. Considering the wide range of bathroom showers and range, make sure the bathroom has enough space to adjust your favorite shower.
Be that as it may, you shouldn't underestimate the style and theme of your bathroom while making the decision. Select a shower that aligns with the theme and style of the bathroom to fit neatly and seamlessly into the room.
- Manual Mixer Shower – As one of the most conventional shower types, mixer showers are manually operated to mix hot and cold water supplies. They present no hurdle to installation and usage.
- Thermostatic Mixer Shower – A better option for the family bathroom, these showers come with a fitted thermostatic valve that maintains the temperature and pressure of water at a constant degree, reducing the risk of scalding.
- Power Shower – As the name suggests, these showers depend on an electrical power source to operate. These shower units draw water from hot and cold water tanks, which are pumped towards the water outlets.
- Electric Shower – These bathroom showers come with their own heating element and do not depend on the central heating system to operate. This means these showers only need a supply of cold water to operate.
- Digital Shower – An advanced and modern version of the thermostatic shower allows you to set the water temperature digitally, which can be controlled using a smartphone.
Installation Requirements: What to Know Before You Begin
Before you start looking for a new shower, it is important to understand the level of installation complexity that may be involved.
Electric Safety: Professional installation by a Part P qualified electrician in the UK is necessary for electric and power showers. Don’t attempt it as DIY due to serious safety risk from improper wiring.
Plumbing Adjustments: Sometimes even the installation of shower mixer or thermostatic shower may require alternations to your pipework especially if you are switching from an electric unit.
Waterproofing and Sealing: It is an important part of the shower area installation. You must ensure that your shower enclosure or cubicle is fully sealed and waterproofed to avoid leaks or long term water damage to the floor and walls.
Wall Support: You will need a structurally sound or reinforced wall for the installation of wall mounted shower panel or digital unit. Therefore, if it’s not strong the shower installation on it is not recommended.
Water Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Sustainability has slowly become a top priority in the UK. Not only does it help the environment, but it also reduces energy bills. When buying a bathroom shower, you may want to look for water-efficient models.
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Experts suggest looking for bathroom shower models that come with flow limiters or aerated shower heads. These reduce water usage by mixing air into the spray, maintaining a strong flow while using less water.
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Many digital and thermostatic showers now include eco-settings to prevent unnecessary water waste while waiting for temperature adjustments.
* For homes on water meters, these savings quickly translate into lower bills—without compromising performance.
Optional Features and Shower Accessories
Bathroom showers can be simple or sophisticated depending on your preference. You may opt for the following features to enhance your shower experience.
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Rainfall Shower Heads: A popular choice for those who want to enjoy a rain-like shower experience in their bathroom. It is a luxurious option and delivers water with a gentle, wide stream helping your muscles to feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
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Body Jets and Multi-Spray Patterns: Want a spa-like shower experience? You must try body jets and multi-spray patterns. It’s great for a therapeutic shower experience, covering the full body with a massage-like sensation.
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Smart Connectivity: Smart shower systems are already a reality. The app-controlled shower allows you to customize your shower experience as per your requirements. For example, you can preheat your shower or adjust the temperature remotely, which is perfect for busy mornings.
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LED Displays and Lights: Modern digital showers may include illuminated panels for temperature display or ambient lighting for atmosphere.
Budget Planning and Value Considerations
Bathroom showers vary significantly in price depending on the types, features, and brand.
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Entry-Level: A typical shower head that works on electricity or manual mixers typically costs around/ £60 to £150.
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Mid-Range: A thermostatic or stylish power shower may cost you around £150 to £300.
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Premium and Smart Showers: Smart or digitally controlled models usually cost £400 and above.
* The prices here do not include installation fees and accessories like riser kits, hose attachments, and maintenance costs.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Use
It is important that you keep the shower clean and well-maintained to ensure its longevity and a better shower experience.
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Descale regularly if you live in a hard water area. Limescale build-up can clog outlets and reduce pressure.
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Clean showerheads monthly with a vinegar soak or a mild descaler to maintain water flow and hygiene.
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Check seals, grout, and screens for leaks or wear. Prompt repairs prevent damage to walls and flooring.
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For digital and electric showers, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and get them checked annually.
Final Thoughts
Buying a new bathroom shower is all about comfort, performance, and elevating your daily routine. The shower system you choose should complement your home water system perfectly, fit your space, and align with your lifestyle requirements. Consider all the factors discussed in the blog to ensure your the right choice of bathroom shower.
