Showers Buying Guide

For many of us, our shower is a vital part of our daily routine. It's the place we do some of our best thinking, wake ourselves up after a good night's sleep or wash away our cares and worries after a busy day on the go. That's why a good quality shower, which works efficiently and effectively, is arguably one of the most important purchases you'll ever make. In this expert shower buying guide, we'll help you find the perfect model, with a brief overview of the things you'll need to consider when choosing. We'll take a closer look at domestic water systems and different types of showers, as well as all those essential extras you'll need when fitting a shower.

 

Click on the links below to jump to a section:

• Installation Considerations
• Types of Showers
• Shower Heads
• Shower Valves
• Shower Enclosures
• Shower Fittings & Accessories
• Water-Saving Features
• Popular Shower Brands
• Final Thoughts

Installation Considerations

Water Pressure & Systems

Your water pressure decides what kind of shower you can install. High-pressure systems (like combi boilers) offer more flexibility, while low-pressure homes may need a power shower or pump to boost performance. But first, you’ll need to know which system you have:

1. Gravity-fed system: A cold water tank in the loft and a hot water cylinder in the airing cupboard. Pressure may be low, so a pump might be needed.

2. Combi boiler system: No tanks, just a boiler that heats water on demand. This setup typically offers the highest water pressure.

3. Unvented system: A water cylinder under high pressure, heating water quickly and supplying large amounts.

The system you have dictates which showers are compatible and whether a shower pump is required to boost performance.

Space

For smaller bathrooms, a combination bath and shower can save space, while walk-in showers offer a luxurious experience in larger spaces. Low-profile trays or tileable bases are ideal for people with reduced mobility, offering safe and easy access. You can even add non-slip seats and grab rails for extra safety and comfort.

Professional Installation

Electric and digital showers require a qualified electrician and plumber to install safely. Don't DIY this—hire a pro to ensure it's done right and avoid voiding any warranties.

How much does it cost to fit a shower?

Of course, once you've bought your new shower, you'll need to hire a competent and experienced Tradesperson to fit it.

The labour cost involved will obviously vary in relation to the complexity of the installation and may depend on where you live in the UK. 

However, it could cost as little as £100, if, for example, it's a like-for-like replacement, or could be somewhere between £330–£430 for a brand new mixer shower installation (or up to £550 for an electric shower).

Shower Sets

What Are Shower Sets?

Shower sets are the all-in-one solution that brings everything together—combining shower heads, valves, and other fixtures like riser rails and handheld attachments. They make it easier to coordinate your shower system while ensuring all components work together seamlessly.

Why Choose a Shower Set?

Shower sets simplify the buying process. Instead of purchasing parts individually, shower sets offer a complete package that’s both functional and stylish. They’re also a great option for ensuring design consistency in your bathroom, as the various pieces—like valves, riser kits, and shower heads—come in matching finishes.

Types of Shower Sets

1. Thermostatic Shower Sets
Featuring built-in thermostatic valves, these sets offer precise temperature control and anti-scald protection, making them perfect for family bathrooms.

2. Rain Shower Sets
These sets often come with a large rainfall-style head for an immersive, luxurious shower experience, along with a handheld option for added flexibility.

3. Mixer Shower Sets
These combine a mixer valve with a fixed head and sometimes a handheld attachment, delivering a reliable showering experience with smooth temperature control.

Pros of Shower Sets

• Coordinated Design: Everything matches, from the shower head to the valve, offering a polished look.
• Ease of Installation: Pre-selected sets mean you don’t need to worry about compatibility.
• Variety: Available in styles ranging from contemporary to traditional, and in different finishes like chrome, black, and brushed brass.

Best for:

• Busy households looking for a practical, stylish setup.
• Homeowners wanting a quick, hassle-free upgrade.
• Design lovers who appreciate a cohesive bathroom aesthetic.

Explore Shower Sets by Type:

• 1 Outlet Shower Systems: A simple yet stylish solution for compact spaces.
• 2 Outlet Shower Systems: Enhance your shower with an overhead head and a handheld spray.
• 3 Outlet Shower Systems: Combine overhead, handheld, and body jets for a luxurious spa experience.
• 4 Outlet Shower Systems: For the ultimate indulgence, with multiple outlets to create an energising, customisable shower.

Investing in a shower set makes it easy to achieve a fully functional, coordinated look while taking the stress out of the buying process. Whether you’re after something modern and sleek or timeless and traditional, shower sets offer the perfect combination of practicality and style.

Shower Heads

Your shower head choice can make or break your experience. Here’s what you need to know:

Fixed Shower Heads

Fixed shower heads are mounted to the wall or ceiling, creating a broad rainfall effect. They’re available in different shapes—like round or square—to match your bathroom style, offering a sleek, minimalist look.

• Best for: Contemporary, modern bathrooms.
• Pros: Luxurious feel, even water distribution, available in various shapes to match different styles.
• Cons: Fixed in place, no flexibility for rinsing or adjusting.

Handheld Shower Heads

Handheld shower heads attach to a flexible hose, giving you more control over your shower. They’re perfect for rinsing off soap and shampoo more easily—especially handy for kids, pets, or cleaning the shower itself.

• Best for: Families or anyone needing extra flexibility.
• Pros: Adjustable, convenient for cleaning, perfect for quick rinsing.
• Cons: Less sleek than fixed heads.

Combination Shower Heads

Combination heads give you both a fixed head and a handheld option, offering flexibility for a busy household where everyone has different needs. Ideal for homes where you want versatility without sacrificing style.

• Best for: Busy families needing flexibility and convenience.
• Pros: Combines flexibility with luxury, great for multitasking households.
• Cons: Higher price than single-head systems.

Shower Valves

Shower valves control the temperature and water flow. Choose the right one based on your system and the level of control you want.

Manual Valves

Manual valves let you control the temperature yourself. They’re affordable but may cause sudden temperature changes if someone uses another water outlet.

• Best for: Budget-conscious buyers.
• Cons: No thermostatic control, so water temp can fluctuate if other taps are used.

Thermostatic Valves

Thermostatic valves keep the temperature consistent, even if someone else is using water in the house. These are ideal for family bathrooms, preventing scalding and making showers safer for children and the elderly.

• Best for: Families or anyone who wants a safe, stable shower.
• Pros: Anti-scald protection, consistent water temperature.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost.

Concealed vs. Exposed Valves

Concealed valves: Hidden behind the wall for a minimalist, cleaner look—ideal for modern bathrooms. They also allow greater flexibility in valve and outlet placement, perfect for custom setups where controls and showerheads can be placed separately.

Cons: More complex to install, and maintenance can be tricky as access may require removing tiles or panels, increasing the cost of repairs.

 

Exposed valves: Mounted on the wall, easier to install and maintain, but limited in placement by the shower hose position.

Cons: Not as sleek as concealed valves.

Shower Enclosures

Choosing the right shower enclosure is key to elevating your bathroom's style and functionality. Whether you’re working with a compact en-suite or a spacious master bathroom, we’ve got a range of enclosures to suit your space. Here’s a breakdown of our most popular options:

Quadrant Shower Enclosures

Quadrant enclosures are a great option for both large and small bathrooms. Their curved front maximises space without compromising on style, making them a versatile choice for any bathroom layout.

Best for: Compact and mid-size bathrooms.

Offset Quadrant Shower Enclosures

Offset quadrant enclosures offer a more spacious showering area with one side longer than the other. They’re ideal for larger bathrooms, where you want to combine functionality with a touch of luxury.

Best for: Spacious bathrooms.

Shower Doors

Transform your bathroom with our range of shower doors, available in hinged, sliding, and bi-fold styles. Whether you’re upgrading an existing space or designing a brand-new bathroom, we’ve got the perfect door to suit.

Best for: Creating a custom shower enclosure.

Rectangular Shower Enclosures

Ideal for larger bathrooms, rectangular enclosures offer a sleek, spacious showering area. These enclosures create a modern, minimalist look, perfect for contemporary designs.

Best for: Large bathrooms with plenty of space.

Square Shower Enclosures

Square enclosures are the perfect choice for smaller spaces where you still want an elegant and functional shower. They offer a clean, simple aesthetic and fit easily into corners.

Best for: Smaller or mid-size bathrooms.

Frameless Shower Enclosures

Frameless enclosures offer a chic, minimalist look that’s perfect for modern bathrooms. With clean lines and no bulky frame, they create a spacious and open feel, ideal for on-trend interiors.

Best for: Sleek, modern bathrooms.

Walk-In Showers and Wet Rooms

Looking to create an open, airy space? A walk-in shower or wet room offers easy access and a seamless design. These enclosures are ideal for larger bathrooms and for those with reduced mobility who need more open space.

Best for: Open-plan bathrooms or people with mobility concerns.

Shower Side Panels

Complete your enclosure with elegant side panels. Designed to complement your shower, these panels provide the finishing touch to your new bathroom.

Best for: Custom enclosures and adding extra detail.

Shower Cabins

For the ultimate in luxury, upgrade to a shower cabin. These enclosed units often come with features like body jets, built-in seats, and steam functions, giving you a spa-like experience at home.

Best for: Luxury bathrooms and those wanting an all-in-one shower solution.

Explore our complete collection of shower enclosures, with options to suit every space, style, and budget. From compact corner units to large, luxurious enclosures, we’ve got everything you need to transform your shower experience.

 

Shower Trays

Choose the perfect tray to pair with your enclosure. Our range includes a variety of sizes and materials, from ultra-slim trays to durable stone resin options, ensuring a perfect fit and look for your shower space.

Best for: Customising your shower setup.

Bath Shower Screens

Maximise your bath’s potential with our stylish bath screens. Available in curved, square, and sail designs, these screens add functionality and style to any bath, offering a simple way to enjoy a shower without needing a separate enclosure.

Best for: Bath-shower combos.

Shower Accessories

Complete your shower with accessories like body jets for that spa-like experience, shower curtains, storage, or squeegees to keep your space streak-free. There are also various finishes to choose from, including chrome, black, gold, and brushed nickel, so you can match your shower to your bathroom style.

Maintenance Tips

Keep your shower in top shape with regular maintenance:

• Shower heads: Clean them often to prevent limescale build-up. Many modern shower heads come with anti-limescale technology, reducing the need for deep cleaning—especially useful in hard-water areas.
• Valves and seals: Check for leaks or worn-out seals regularly, especially in concealed systems. Early detection is key, as fixing concealed valves can require removing tiles or panels, which can add complexity and cost to repairs.
• General maintenance: Rinse the shower after use and leave the door open to reduce humidity and prevent mould growth.

 

Water-Saving Features

For eco-conscious customers, many modern showers come with low-flow technology or aerated showerheads. These reduce water consumption without compromising pressure, so you can enjoy a great shower while saving water.

Choosing the Right Shower for You

When picking your new shower, think about:

• Water Pressure: High-pressure homes have more flexibility, while low-pressure homes might need a power or electric shower.
• Bathroom Layout: Smaller bathrooms might benefit from a combination shower or handheld option, while larger spaces can handle a fixed rainfall head or shower tower.
• Family Needs: Families often prefer thermostatic mixers for safety or shower towers for that spa-like experience—complete with body jets and multiple outlets.

Shower Brands We Offer

At Victorian Plumbing, we stock a wide range of top-quality brands, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect fit for your bathroom, no matter your style or budget. Below is a selection of some of the well-known and trusted brands we offer:

Popular Shower Brands

• Aqualisa – Known for cutting-edge digital showers that offer precise control and eco-friendly features.
• Arezzo – Featuring a broad range of contemporary designs with high-end finishes.
• Bristan – Offers both style and functionality with a variety of mixer and electric showers.
• Crosswater – A premium brand for luxurious and innovative bathroom solutions.
• Grohe – Renowned for high-quality, durable showers with a focus on water-saving technology.
• Mira – A household name for thermostatic and electric showers, offering excellent performance and safety features.
• Triton – Affordable, high-performance electric showers, perfect for secondary bathrooms or budget-friendly renovations.
• Victorian Plumbing – Our own range, offering stylish and affordable solutions for any bathroom design.

Disclaimer: Product availability may vary depending on stock and supplier conditions. Always check the product page for the most accurate information on availability before finalising your purchase.

Shower Thoughts

A new shower can completely change your bathroom experience. Whether you’re chasing more pressure, high-tech control, eco-friendly options, or a spa-like feel, we’ve got you covered. Ready to make a splash? 

Explore our full range of showers and upgrade your bathroom today!

Explore expert tips, maintenance advice, and design guides in our blog posts.  For more help in making informed decisions, check out our other buying guides.