Why Electric Showers are a Must-Have in Modern Homes
Introduction
Electric showers have become increasingly popular in modern homes because of their convenience and flexibility. These types of showers offer a quick and easy way to enjoy hot water without the need for a hot water tank or boiler. In this article, we will explore what an electric shower is, its importance in modern homes, its brief history, how it works, advantages and disadvantages of using an electric shower, types available in the market, how to choose the best one for your home and installation and maintenance tips.
Definition of an Electric Shower
An electric shower is a type of shower that heats water as it flows through the unit. Unlike traditional showers that rely on hot water from a central heating system or boiler tank to provide heated water, electric showers use an internal heating element which heats the cold mains water supply directly as it passes through the unit.
Importance in Modern Homes
Electric showers are essential in modern homes because they provide instant access to hot water without relying on other systems like central heating or boilers. Because they are independent units, they are perfect for houses with limited space or those that do not have access to gas lines.
Additionally, Most models come with adjustable temperature settings allowing for complete control over the temperature and flow rate of the water which results in energy savings compared to traditional systems where water is heated unnecessarily. Overall, installing an electric shower can save homeowners time and money while providing all the benefits associated with conventional boilers.
Limited Hot Water Supply
Another disadvantage of using an electric shower is that they typically have a limited hot water supply. This means that you may find yourself running out of hot water mid-shower, especially if you have multiple people in your household who all need to take showers at around the same time.
One way to address this issue is by choosing an electric shower with a larger tank capacity or by opting for one with a faster heating element. You could also consider installing separate hot-water heaters in different areas of your home so that everyone has access to hot water when they need it.
The Cost Factor
While electric showers are generally cheaper than other types of showers, they do come with some added costs over time. For example, as mentioned earlier, they tend to have lower flow rates and may lead to higher energy bills as you will use more electricity when taking longer showers due mainly because you want warmer temperatures.
Furthermore, if you do have any issues with your electric shower, such as low water pressure or a malfunctioning heating element, you may need to pay for repairs or replacement parts. These costs can add up over time and may make using an electric shower less cost-effective in the long run.
Not Ideal for Large Households
Electric showers may not be ideal for larger households where multiple people need to take showers at the same time. This is because they have limited hot water supply and lower flow rates which can cause problems if there are many people in the house who all need to use the shower simultaneously. Therefore, if you have a big family or frequently host guests who all need access to hot water, may not be the best option for your household.
Overall, while electric showers do come with some disadvantages like low water pressure issues and limited hot water supply, they are still a great option for many households due to their energy efficiency and ease of installation. So it’s important that you weigh these pros and cons before making any decisions about which type of shower is right for you.
Types of Electric Showers
Electric showers come in different forms, each with its unique features and designs. Two common types are the thermostatic electric shower and the power shower. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages.
Thermostatic Electric Shower
A thermostatic electric shower is designed to maintain a constant water temperature, regardless of changes in the incoming water supply. This type of shower has a built-in thermostat that monitors the temperature of the water to ensure that it stays within a predetermined range. The thermostat does this by adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water to maintain a stable output temperature.
One advantage of a thermostatic electric shower is that it provides a safe and comfortable showering experience, as you do not have to worry about sudden changes in water temperature. Additionally, it can be used with any type of water system, including low-pressure systems.
However, one disadvantage is that they are more expensive than other types of electric showers due to their added features. Furthermore, they require professional installation due to their complex design.
Power Shower
A power shower is designed for households with low-pressure water systems. It has an inbuilt pump that boosts the pressure of both hot and cold water supplies coming into the unit, resulting in an increased flow rate from your showerhead.
One advantage of power showers is that they provide an invigorating and refreshing shower experience with high-pressure jets, even if your home’s overall pressure is low. Another benefit is that they work well with all types of water heating systems such as gas boilers or immersions heaters.
However, one disadvantage is they are more expensive than standard electric showers due to pumps required for them to work efficiently. Additionally, having higher electrical requirements can make them less energy-efficient compared to other options on the market.
These two types represent the majority of electric shower options on the market. It’s important to choose the right type for your home based on several factors such as water pressure, budget, and heating system.
How to Choose the Best Electric Shower for Your Home
Water pressure and flow rate considerations
When it comes to choosing an electric shower, water pressure and flow rate are two important factors that should be considered. The water pressure in your home will determine if you need a power shower or a thermostatic electric shower.
Power showers are ideal for homes with low water pressure, while thermostatic electric showers work best in homes with high water pressure. The flow rate of the electric shower is also important as it determines how quickly the hot water will come out of the showerhead.
Before purchasing one, ensure that the water pressure in your home is checked by a plumber, so you can choose an electric shower that supports it. It is also important to check the minimum and maximum flow rates of different models to pick one that suits your needs.
Size and capacity requirements
The size and capacity of an electric shower are other important factors to consider when choosing one for your home. The size should fit comfortably in your bathroom without taking up too much space.
You should also consider if there is enough space for plumbing connections. The capacity of an electric shower refers to how much hot water it can deliver at any given time.
If you have a large family or frequently use multiple bathrooms simultaneously, opt for one with a larger capacity tank. However, if you live alone or have low hot water demand, then a smaller capacity may suffice.
Budget considerations
Budget is another important factor when choosing one for your home. Electric showers are generally more affordable than other types of showers like mixer showers or digital showers due to their simplicity in design and installation process.
However, keep in mind that higher-priced models tend to offer more features such as improved temperature control mechanisms and energy-saving modes which can save money on utility bills over time. Consider your budget and prioritize features that are most important to you.
Brand reputation and customer reviews
It is also important to consider the brand reputation and customer reviews when choosing an electric shower. Research different brands and read through customer feedback on various models to get a better idea of their performance, reliability, and durability. A well-reviewed model from a reputable brand may be worth the investment for long-term satisfaction.
Choosing an electric shower for your home is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of several factors. By taking into account water pressure, size, capacity, budget, brand reputation, and customer reviews, you can find the best electric shower for your needs that will provide a reliable source of hot water for years to come.
Installation and Maintenance Tips for Your Peace of Mind
Proper Installation Procedures
Installing an electric shower can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and some technical knowledge, it can be done safely and efficiently. Firstly, ensure that you have all the necessary plumbing and electrical supplies before starting the installation process. It’s important to use high-quality materials to avoid any leaks or accidents that may occur from using substandard products.
Before installation, make sure that you have chosen an appropriate location for it. Choose a place where there is easy access to water supply and electricity, without causing any damage to existing wall structures.
It is also important to ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the installation area to prevent moisture buildup. Once you have chosen the right location for your electric shower, it’s time to begin installation.
Start by attaching all of the necessary pipework, including ensuring proper water pressure. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure before turning on the water supply.
Connect the electrical supply for your electric shower using an appropriately rated cable as specified in your manufacturer’s guidebook. If you are not confident about connecting electricity yourself, consult with a qualified electrician who will help make sure everything is wired correctly.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Regular cleaning of your electric shower will keep it running at its optimal state for longer periods of time while reducing risk corrosion or damage caused by mineral deposit buildup over time. To clean an electric shower properly requires some basic skills such as removing mineral deposits accumulated on its heating element or removing lime build up caused by hard water over time from pipes leading into it
To remove mineral deposits from an electric shower head or heating element; first turn off the power supply then unscrew these parts gently using a wrench then soak them in vinegar solution overnight before scrubbing them clean with a soft brush or cloth. It is important to clean your electric showerhead regularly with hot, soapy water to prevent clogs and ensure consistent water pressure during use.
Also, make sure to keep the area around the shower clean and free from grime buildup. It is essential to conduct regular maintenance checks on your electric shower.
This includes checking for leaks or any signs of wear and tear on all parts of the system. Ensure that you follow specific manufacturer maintenance instructions detailed in the user manual to keep your electric shower in good condition for an extended period of time.
Conclusion
The electric shower has become an indispensable fixture in modern homes due to its cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. In this article, the various components of an electric shower were discussed along with how it works to heat water using a heating element and temperature control mechanism. Additionally, the advantages and disadvantages of using an electric shower were highlighted.
One of the significant advantages of using an electric shower is that it is energy efficient. Unlike traditional showers which require heating up water from a central heating system, electric showers only heat up the water needed during use; hence they consume less energy.
They are also easy to install, saving homeowners on professional installation costs. However, low water pressure issues can be a disadvantage when using an electric shower; besides, there can be a limited supply of hot water when used for extended periods.
Therefore before choosing your preferred type or model consider your household requirements such as size and capacity needs as well as budget considerations. Having an electric shower installed at home allows for greater convenience in accessing hot water without having to rely on traditional heating systems or hot water tanks.
As technology advances so do modern amenities like the electric shower which provides comfort while delivering high levels of energy efficiency and cost savings for modern homes. With these benefits in mind, it’s clear that the use of one is essential in modern homes.
It’s no wonder that more people are opting for this option in place of traditional alternatives. Hopefully this article has provided useful insights into what you need to know about electrical showers; ultimately helping you make informed decisions when purchasing one for your home!