Shower Buying Guide

Getting that refreshing shower right after a long and tiring day is no doubt one of the most relaxing experiences you could ever get. However, that relaxing feeling can get compromised with the poor choice of a shower for your bathroom. That said, let’s get into the most useful tips you should consider when shopping for a shower.

Decide which type of shower you want

Showers are categorized into different types which are as follows:

• Digital – a digital shower uses digital technology to make it easier for you to control the temperature and flow rate of the water. You can even do that with the help of a remote.
• Electric – showers that belong to this type are quick and easy to fit. As the name implies, it uses electricity to operate. The best thing about an electric shower is that you can enjoy hot water at all times. This is because it comes with its own heating elements which heat up a cold water supply.
• Manual mixer – this type works by combining both hot and cold water to provide you the temperature you want. It’s technically more powerful than an electric shower, not to mention it’s very easy to fit and use.
• Power – power showers also combine both hot and cold water, except that they come with a pump which boosts your water’s flow rate for a more enjoyable shower experience. They’re often confused with electric showers due to the similarity in appearance.
• Smart – a smart shower is basically the most advanced type of shower in the market. Like any other smart devices, it integrates itself into smart home systems, allowing you to control it with ease.
• Thermostat mixer – this type uses a thermostatic valve to maintain your water’s temperature. It is often the ideal choice for families with kids or elderly as it can reduce the risks of scalding.

Find out what water system your house has

Your home’s water system will affect the type of shower you want to install. Therefore, before you even purchase a shower, make sure you find out which system your house has. The following are the different water systems found in homes nowadays:

• Cold mains supply – in a cold mains supply, an electric shower is often the most ideal choice. In this system, water is automatically heated upon turning it on, meaning you won’t be using any hot water stored inside a cylinder.
• Low pressure gravity – this type of system comes includes a cold water tank with a hot water cylinder beneath it. The water inside the cylinder is heated using a boiler and is then fed to the taps through the pipe. It’s also among the most common water systems being used.
• Mains pressure combination – likewise known as a combi boiler system, this one features a boiler without any water cylinders or tanks. It’s designed to heat water each time you use it. Also, this type of system features the highest water pressure possible and is compatible with a shower mixer.
• Mains pressure unvented – in this system, a water cylinder is heated through a boiler. This way, water is directly fed from the mains supply, thus removing the need for a cold water tank. It also allows the system to supply huge volumes of hot water all at once.

Consider the type of shower valve

The type of shower valve you choose will determine how much control you can have with regards to the flow and temperature of your shower. The controls can be either hidden (often concealed within the wall cavity) or exposed (the entire valve is sitting on the wall). They’re also divided into five different types which are as follows:

• Bar mixer – a bar mixer comes with controls located on either side to let you create the perfect shower experience for your needs. It’s generally surface mounted and will work with just about any water system.
• Bar mixer diverter – this one is similar to the bar mixer except that it lets you switch between letting water flow from a fixed to a flexible shower head. Like the previous type, it’s also surface mounted and can be used on any water system.
• Concentric mixer – this type comes with a dial on the front of two valves to give you more control and a higher water flow compared to a single lever mixer. Additionally, you can choose between a concealed or surface mounted design. It’s also suitable for any water system.
• Single level mixer – this one allows you to control your shower using a single valve. It can be either surface mounted or recessed.
• Sequential mixer – a sequential mixer comes with a single dial which lets you adjust the temperature to your liking. However, it doesn’t let you adjust the water flow.

Conclusion

Regardless of your choice, you need to make sure you only choose a shower that can suit your needs. After all, no one wants to walk into a shower and walk out disappointed due to a poor-performing shower.