Mixer, electric and power showers are among the most popular types of shower available, but which one is right for you?
Offered in all sorts of shapes and sizes, pressure and style, mixer, electric and power showers have different features and appeal to different users as a result. Whichever one you choose, consider the impact you want to create with your shower – do you want a massive shower head or fancy a digital shower that can be switched on from another room, for example?
Electric
These showers heat cold mains water and basically work like a water heater, only heating the water as it works its way towards the shower head. This makes it a cost-efficient option as just the amount of water you use is heated, and it can be convenient having it operate independently to your boiler. Should your boiler break or have issues, you can still enjoy your morning or evening shower.
There is no pump involved and electric showers heat mains cold water quickly. The amount of water that comes through the shower head varies according to your mains water pressure.
Power
Power showers are a type of electric shower but feature a pump. They connect to both hot and cold water supplies and mix the two to achieve the ideal temperature. The electrical pump boosts pressure and increases that rate at which the water flows out of the shower head. You have control over the temperature and pressure, giving you the option to have invigorating showers whenever you wish.
Mixer
These showers cleverly mix hot and cold water to give you the temperature you want. Mixer showers work best with high pressure water systems.
The one you choose will depend on personal preference and budget. The standard electric shower is the cheapest as it only heats the water you use for your shower to keep running costs at a minimum. However, you won’t get the same experience that you get from a power shower, although this does use nearly three-times the amount of water compared to a basic electric model. Which.co.uk runs through some tips on buying showers, which may help you decide.
Once you’ve chosen the shower type, it’s then time to think about the design. Do you want an enclosed shower, a shower over the bath, or a wet room? These shower collections should give you some initial ideas, and when you’re ready to contemplate details take a look at these shower doors and enclosures ranges.