Fixington

Electric Shower

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

An electric shower is a popular choice for UK homes where instant hot water is needed directly at the shower head. Unlike a traditional shower that relies on a hot water tank or boiler, an electric shower heats cold water on demand using an internal heating element. This means you get hot water as soon as you start your shower, without waiting for the main water heating system.

You might need to install an electric shower if:

  • You have limited or unreliable hot water supply.
  • You want to reduce pressure on your boiler.
  • You are adding a new bathroom or upgrading an old shower.
  • You want more control over water temperature and flow.

Electric showers are ideal for homes with mains water pressure and can be an efficient, space-saving option.

🔧 What the job involves

Fitting or replacing an electric shower involves several key parts:

  • Water Supply Connection: The shower connects directly to the cold water mains.
  • Electrical Supply: The shower requires a dedicated circuit connection, usually 30A or above, with an RCD (residual current device) for safety.
  • Mounting the Shower Unit: This includes fixing the unit to the wall, connecting water and electrical supplies, and installing a shower head and hose.
  • Safety and Testing: The electrician must test the installation to confirm electrical safety and ensure the shower heats water correctly.
  • Regulation Compliance: All electrical work must comply with UK wiring regulations (BS 7671) and Building Regulations Part P, which may involve notification to your local authority or verification by a competent person scheme electrician.

Occasionally, more work is needed such as upgrading the consumer unit (fuse box) or plumbing adjustments.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial Enquiry: Contact a qualified electrician or registered tradesperson. Give details about your current plumbing and electrics.
  2. Survey/Assessment: The electrician visits your home to inspect water pressure, electrical supply, and installation space.
  3. Quotation: You receive a written quote outlining labour, parts, and any additional work needed.
  4. Booking a Date: Agree a convenient time for the work to be done.
  5. Preparation: Clear the bathroom area; ensure access to the mains water and consumer unit.
  6. Installation Day: The electrician installs the electric shower. This includes mounting, plumbing connections, electrical wiring, and testing.
  7. Completion and Handover: The work is inspected and tested. The electrician provides certification and user instructions.
  8. Aftercare Advice: You receive guidance on operating the shower, warranty information, and servicing recommendations.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electrician time for installation and testing (typically 3–6 hours).
  • Materials and Parts: Electric shower unit (£150–£350), wiring, cables, switches.
  • Electrical Upgrades: Possibly new circuit breaker or consumer unit work if required.
  • Plumbing: Minor pipe adjustments or fittings.
  • Disposal: Removal of old shower and materials (sometimes included).
  • Certification: Electrical safety certificate from a registered electrician.

Example cost breakdown (approximate)

Item Typical Cost (£)
Electric Shower Unit 200
Labour (4 hours) 160–280
Materials (cables, fittings) 50–80
Electrical upgrades 0–100+
Disposal 20–40
Certification Included with electrician

📊 What affects the price

  • Access and Location: Tight spaces or awkward positions increase labour time.
  • Water Pressure and Plumbing: Low pressure systems may require adjustments or pumps.
  • Electrical Supply Condition: Older consumer units might need upgrades.
  • Regulation and Certification: Complying with Part P may require extra paperwork.
  • Remedial Work: Wall repairs or tiling after installation.
  • Urgency: Short notice or weekend work may cost more.
  • Complexity of Shower: Higher specification models with extra features might cost more.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple Replacement: Swapping an existing electric shower for a similar model normally takes around 3 to 4 hours.
  • New Installation: Installing an electric shower where none existed before can take between 4 and 6 hours, depending on plumbing and electrics.
  • Electrical Upgrades: If your consumer unit or wiring needs upgrading, this may add 1–2 hours or more.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Electric showers involve both electrical and plumbing work. In the UK:

  • Electrical work connected to a fixed installation in a bathroom is subject to Part P Building Regulations.
  • Work must be done by a competent person or notified to your local authority.
  • Electric showers require a dedicated circuit and RCD protection.
  • Incorrect installation risks electric shock or fire.

For these reasons, DIY installation is not recommended unless you are a qualified electrician with relevant knowledge and certification.

💰 Typical UK price range

A full electric shower installation typically costs between £450 and £750 including VAT. This estimate covers a mid-range shower unit, materials, labour, and certification. More complex jobs or high-end showers may cost more, while a simple replacement could be at the lower end.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check Water Pressure: Ensure mains water pressure is sufficient; electric showers need at least 1 bar.
  • Clear the Area: Remove personal items and give clear access around the shower space.
  • Electricity Supply: Make sure your consumer unit can spare a circuit (consult your electrician in advance).
  • Ask About Warranty: Confirm shower unit warranty and what it covers.
  • Keep Paperwork: Store the installation certificate and manuals safely for future reference.
  • Plan Servicing: Electric showers benefit from annual checks to maintain performance and safety.
  • Understand Limits: Electric showers control temperature via water flow; sudden changes in mains pressure can affect this.

Once installed correctly, an electric shower can be a reliable, efficient way to enjoy instant hot water on demand.