How to choose the correct shower
Your home installation system
When you are deciding what style of shower you require, you need to determine the type of water heating system you have installed in your home. This will affect your choice of shower, and the shower's performance. To help you identify the type of system you have installed, read the quick guide outlined below.
Low pressure systems
Gravity fed hot water systems
The usual configuration consists of a cold water storage tank in the loft, and a hot water cylinder in the airing cupboard. This is the water supply traditionally installed in the UK homes.
High pressure systems
Instantaneous gas water heater or combination boiler. Combination
boilers are increasingly used in the UK, and a wall mounted or floor standing boiler heats the water as it is used.
Unvented systems
Hot water is stored in a large cylinder under pressure. This system has no requirement for a cold
water storage tank.
Different Shower Types
Mixer Shower
Hot and cold water are combined in a single mixer unit, are ideal for homes with a plentiful supply of hot water, and are able to provide a higher flow rate than electric showers.
Compatible systems: Gravity fed, instantaneous gas water heater or combination boiler, and unvented.
Electric Shower
Cold water is supplied directly from the mains supply, and is heated by passing over a heating element in the shower. This means it is unaffected by other household water fittings, and is economical.
Compatible systems: Gravity fed, instantaneous gas water heater or combination boiler, and unvented. These are supplied directly by the cold mains feed.
Pumped Electric Shower
These are needed where cold mains pressure is insufficient. An integral pump draws water from a cold water storage tank, and boosts water through the electric heating element to provide an economic shower.
Compatible systems: Gravity fed cold supply.
Shower Panel Shower
Hot and cold water is combined in a single mixer unit which requires a pumped or pressurised system.
Compatible systems: Gravity fed hot (must be pumped, and give a minimum of 2 bar pressure), instantaneous gas water heater or combination boiler and unvented. (Note: Combi boilers or pumps must give a minimum of 2 bar performance)
