Electric showers are showers that heat water on demand using an internal heating element, rather than relying on hot water from a cylinder or tank. When the shower is turned on, cold water flows into the unit, passes over the heating element, and comes out at a controlled temperature.
Electric showers are useful where the hot water supply may be limited or variable, because they do not depend on stored hot water and can deliver a constant supply of warm water as long as there is cold water and electricity.
Key features include on-demand water heating, temperature control to adjust the mix of heated and cold water, flow control to regulate water pressure, and safety features such as thermostatic cut-offs to prevent scalding.
They work by heating cold water as it passes through the shower unit. Controls allow the user to select both temperature and flow rate.
Advantages of electric showers include consistent warm water, suitability for small homes or en-suites, energy efficiency since they heat only the water used, and relatively simple installation without needing a separate hot water feed.
Considerations include ensuring sufficient water pressure, meeting electrical safety requirements with a dedicated circuit and RCD, and understanding that electric showers serve the shower only and do not replace central hot water for the whole house.
In summary, electric showers provide instant hot water, offering a practical solution for reliable and energy-efficient showers independent of a central hot water supply.
