A good shower is more than just a bathroom fixture — it’s part of your everyday routine. Whether you’re waking up with a morning rinse or winding down at night, choosing the right shower can make all the difference. To help you decide, here’s a simple guide that walks you through the types of showers available and what to consider before making a purchase.
Types of Showers Explained
There are a few main types of showers, each offering different features depending on your setup and preferences:
- Electric Showers
These heat water instantly as it passes through the unit, which makes them perfect for homes without stored hot water. They also work well in areas with low water pressure. - Mixer Showers
Mixer showers combine hot and cold water from your supply, offering strong water flow if you have decent pressure. They’re great for those who want more control over temperature. - Power Showers
Designed with built-in pumps, power showers increase water pressure and deliver a strong, invigorating spray — ideal if your home suffers from low pressure. - Digital Showers
These use digital controls to let you fine-tune both temperature and flow. Some also come with remote or wireless options, adding an extra level of comfort. - Smart Showers
A high-tech option featuring app control, voice commands, and custom user profiles. These showers offer the most advanced features but tend to be at the higher end of the price range.
What’s the Best Shower for Low Water Pressure?
If your water pressure isn’t great, go for a power shower or an electric shower. These are designed to perform well under weaker pressure. You can also boost the effect by choosing a showerhead with smaller or fewer nozzles, which help concentrate the flow for a better spray.
Mixer vs Power Shower — What’s the Difference?
A mixer shower blends hot and cold water directly from your system and requires good water pressure to work properly. A power shower, on the other hand, comes with a pump that increases pressure, making it better suited to homes with low-pressure systems.
What is a Thermostatic Shower?
A thermostatic shower keeps your chosen temperature steady — even if someone else uses water elsewhere in the house. This is a great choice for family bathrooms or anyone who wants to avoid surprise temperature changes mid-shower.
Understanding Shower Terminology
Here are a few useful terms that might come up during your search:
- Water Flow Rate: This is measured in litres per minute. A higher rate means a stronger shower.
- Shower Outlets: This refers to how many different water outputs the shower has. One outlet might feed a handheld head, while two or three outlets can also supply a fixed overhead head and even a bath filler.
- Ceiling Fed vs Rear Fed: A ceiling fed shower connects from above, whereas a rear fed shower is installed through the wall.
Choosing the Best Shower for Your Home
When it comes to selecting the right shower, consider these key factors:
1. Water Pressure
- Low Pressure: Stick with electric or power showers that can handle weak pressure.
- High Pressure: You’ve got more flexibility — mixer, digital, and smart showers are all on the table.
2. Budget
- Affordable: Electric showers are typically the least expensive option.
- Mid-Range: Mixer showers strike a good balance between cost and performance.
- High-End: Digital and smart showers offer the most features but come with a higher price tag.
3. Features That Matter
- Temperature Control: Thermostatic and digital showers allow you to set and maintain your ideal temperature.
- Water Flow Options: Choose a flow rate and spray pattern that suits your preference — some like a rainfall-style flow, others a more direct stream.
- Modern Extras: Some models offer voice control, Bluetooth audio, or app settings to enhance your experience.
4. Personal Style and Comfort
- Experience: Decide whether you want a powerful spray or something more relaxing.
- Design: Your shower should match the overall look and feel of your bathroom.
- Ease of Use: Make sure controls are simple, especially if it’s for a family bathroom or older users.
If you need help selecting the right shower based on your space, plumbing system, and lifestyle, don’t hesitate to get expert advice before buying.