Electric vs Thermostatic Showers: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing the right shower for your bathroom can make all the difference in your daily routine. Whether you're a morning person or prefer a late-night rinse, the type of shower you install can impact your water usage, comfort, and even your energy bills. Two popular choices that often come up are electric showers and thermostatic showers. But which one is better for your home? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision!

What Is an Electric Shower?

An electric shower is a convenient option that heats water on demand, directly from your cold water supply. It's equipped with an internal heating element that warms the water as it flows through the unit. This means you don't need to rely on a boiler or a pre-heated tank of water to enjoy a hot shower.

How Does an Electric Shower Work?

Electric showers operate by using a heating element, much like a kettle. When you turn on the shower, cold water enters the unit and flows over the heating element. You can adjust the temperature of the water using the controls on the shower unit. The flow rate affects the temperature—higher flow rates will produce cooler water since there’s less time for it to heat up.

Pros and Cons of Electric Showers

Pros:

• Instant hot water: No need to wait for the water to heat up. Just turn it on, and you're ready to go.
• Energy efficient: Electric showers only heat the water you're using, which can save energy compared to systems that keep a whole tank hot.
• Works even if the boiler is down: Since electric showers don't rely on a boiler, they’ll still function during a boiler breakdown.

Cons:

• Flow rate can be lower: The flow rate of electric showers is often less powerful compared to other systems, especially in winter when the cold water supply is much colder.
• Requires a high electrical load: Electric showers need their own circuit due to the high amount of power they consume.
• Temperature control can be less precise: The temperature can fluctuate if the water pressure changes (e.g., someone else is using water elsewhere in the house).

What Is a Thermostatic Shower?

A thermostatic shower blends hot and cold water from your supply to maintain a consistent temperature. Unlike electric showers, thermostatic showers rely on your existing hot water system. They’re called “thermostatic” because they automatically adjust the mix of hot and cold water to keep the temperature constant, even if the water pressure fluctuates.

How Does a Thermostatic Shower Work?

Thermostatic showers have a built-in thermostat that monitors the temperature of the water. When there are changes in water pressure (like someone flushing a toilet), the thermostat adjusts the water mix to ensure the temperature stays consistent. This is great for homes with children or elderly people, as it reduces the risk of scalding.

Pros and Cons of Thermostatic Showers

Pros:

• Consistent temperature: Thermostatic showers maintain a steady temperature, making them safe and comfortable.
• More luxurious: These showers often have better water pressure and flow rates, giving you that spa-like experience.
• Safer for families: Since they reduce the risk of sudden temperature changes, they’re ideal for homes with young children or elderly individuals.

Cons:

• Requires a hot water system: You’ll need a reliable hot water supply from a boiler or hot water tank.
• Can be more expensive to install: The plumbing requirements for thermostatic showers can sometimes lead to higher installation costs.
• Dependent on your boiler: If your boiler goes out, so does your hot shower.Electric Showers vs. Thermostatic Showers: The Key Differences

Which Shower Is Right for You?

The right shower for your home depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing plumbing. Here's a quick guide:

Choose an Electric Shower if:

• You want instant hot water without relying on your boiler.
• You have limited hot water storage or want to save energy by heating water on demand.
• You're on a tight budget and prefer a more straightforward installation.

Choose a Thermostatic Shower if:

• You have a reliable hot water system and want a more luxurious shower experience.
• You have young children or elderly individuals in your home who require safer, consistent temperatures.
• You're willing to invest a bit more in installation for long-term comfort and safety.

Related Article: Types of Showers

FAQs

Q: Can I install an electric shower myself?
A: Installing an electric shower involves working with high-voltage wiring and water connections, so it's recommended to hire a qualified electrician and plumber to ensure it’s done safely.

Q: Are electric showers more expensive to run?
A: Electric showers can be cost-effective since they only heat the water you're using. However, if used frequently, they can consume a fair amount of electricity.

Q: Do thermostatic showers require regular maintenance?
A: Like all plumbing systems, thermostatic showers benefit from regular maintenance to ensure the thermostat works properly and the shower remains safe and functional.

Q: Can I switch from an electric shower to a thermostatic shower?
A: Yes, but this may require significant changes to your plumbing system. You’ll need to ensure you have a reliable hot water source and may need additional pipework installed.

Conclusion

Both electric and thermostatic showers have their own unique advantages, and the best choice will depend on your home setup and personal preferences. If you're looking for an energy-efficient solution with instant hot water, an electric shower might be right for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize consistent water temperature and a more luxurious shower experience, a thermostatic shower is the way to go.