Fixington

Outdoor Shower

Trade: Plumber

⭐ Introduction

An outdoor shower is a practical and refreshing addition to your garden or patio area, perfect for rinsing off after gardening, swimming, or simply cooling down on warm days. Ideal for homes with pools, hot tubs, or beach access nearby, it can also help keep your house cleaner by washing away dirt and sand before entering.

Whether you want a simple cold-water shower or a more complex installation with hot water and temperature control, a professional plumber can help design and install the right setup for your needs. Outdoor showers can also add value to your home by enhancing your outdoor living space.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing an outdoor shower involves connecting water supply and drainage to an appropriate outdoor tap or plumbing point. The plumber usually:

  • Sources and fits the shower unit or fixtures, including a showerhead, valves (to control water flow and temperature), and a suitable base or tray if required.
  • Connects the shower to your cold and/or hot water supply, ensuring all pipework is weatherproof and secured.
  • Installs proper drainage or water run-off solutions to prevent water pooling or damage to your garden or property.
  • Ensures all fittings comply with UK building and water regulations, such as using frost-resistant pipes and armatures in colder regions.
  • Tests the system for leaks, pressure, and safe operation.

Depending on your preferences, the job can range from a straightforward cold-water tap shower to integrating with your home's hot water system.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a qualified plumber to discuss your needs and get advice on options.
  2. Site survey: The plumber visits to inspect your garden, plumbing access, and drainage possibilities.
  3. Written quote: You receive a detailed estimate for parts, labour, and expected timescales.
  4. Booking date: Agree on a convenient date for the installation.
  5. Preparation: You clear the site and ensure access to your property and water supply.
  6. Installation day:
    • Plumber installs the shower unit and connects pipework.
    • Tests and adjusts the system.
    • Cleans up any mess.
  7. Completion: Final walk-through to confirm the job is done to your satisfaction.
  8. Documentation: You receive any relevant paperwork (guarantees, certificates, user guidance).

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Plumber’s hourly rate typically ranges from £40–£60 per hour.
  • Materials/parts: Includes shower unit (£100–£300), pipework, valves, fittings (£50–£150).
  • Additional work: Drainage installation (£100–£250), groundwork or wall-mounting if needed.
  • Disposal: Removal of old fittings or waste (£20–£50).
  • Certification: Not generally required unless tied to other gas or electrical work.

Example breakdown for a simple cold-water shower installation:

  • Labour (4 hours @ £50/hr): £200
  • Shower unit + fittings: £150
  • Drainage fitting: £100
  • Disposal: £30
  • Total estimate: £480 (excluding VAT, where applicable)

📊 What affects the price

  • Access: Difficult garden or wall access increases labour time.
  • Complexity: Adding hot water or mixing valves adds materials and time.
  • Regulations: Compliance with local building rules or water regulations.
  • Remedial works: Repairing old pipework or walls can add costs.
  • Location: Labour costs vary by region within the UK.
  • Timeline: Urgent or out-of-hours work may incur premiums.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple installation: 3 to 6 hours for a basic cold-water outdoor shower connected to an existing tap.
  • Moderate job: 1 to 2 days when adding drainage, new pipework, or hot water.
  • Complex setups: Multiple days if integrating electric shower units or custom builds.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While connecting a straightforward cold-water outdoor tap shower may seem manageable for experienced homeowners, plumbing work involving hot water or drainage usually requires professional skills to ensure safety and compliance.

Key considerations:

  • Plumbing work must be watertight and frost-resistant outside.
  • Hot water or electric showers must be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer or qualified electrician.
  • Drainage must comply with local regulations to avoid damp issues.

If you are not confident in plumbing or electrical skills, it’s advisable to hire a professional plumber.

💰 Typical UK price range

Outdoor shower installation costs typically range from around £400 to £1,500 depending on complexity, parts, and labour.

  • Basic cold-only showers average £400–£700.
  • More advanced systems with hot water or bespoke designs often cost £800–£1,500.
  • Prices usually exclude VAT, which is charged at 20% unless you qualify for exemptions.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Prepare the area by clearing vegetation or debris and ensuring easy access for tradespeople.
  • Decide in advance whether you want hot water, temperature control, or simple cold-water taps.
  • Check your water supply capacity and existing plumbing.
  • Ensure drainage is planned to avoid water pooling near your house or paths.
  • Ask for guarantees on workmanship and parts, and retain all receipts and paperwork.
  • Regularly inspect outdoor plumbing during cold months to avoid frost damage.
  • For electric components, always use Gas Safe registered or certified specialists.
  • Keep a maintenance schedule, including flushing pipes and checking valves annually.

By planning carefully and choosing a qualified plumber, an outdoor shower can be a great addition to your home, combining practicality with simple luxury.