Introduction
Installing a shower in your bathroom provides a fantastic place to cleanse and de-stress, yet there are so many variations around it can often be tough deciding on what to go for. Here, we'll look at what will be most suitable for your bathroom, paying attention to key areas including water pressure, system variants and style options.
What styles of shower are there?
Whether you prefer contemporary or traditional designs, there are plenty of showers to suit your tastes. Most showers comprise of various sections including the head and arm, as well as options like rigid riser kits, slider rails, and exposed valves. Many showers feature numerous outlets and can be positioned either within an enclosure or over a bathtub.
Something slightly different?
For an energy saving choice, electric showers will help to keep costs down. Those looking for a more luxurious experience are also covered, thanks to the growing popularity of shower towers. Towers feature components such as body jets, and generally offer one of the most relaxing ways to cleanse.
What is a concealed shower?
Concealed showers offer a more flush, simplified aesthetic that looks fantastic in more modern settings. They feature an exposed arm and head at the top, as well as a valve panel to regulate the water flow and temperature, but the plumbing is all kept hidden from view behind the wall.
Thermostatic Showers
Safety is key with thermostatic showers as they regulate the temperature of the water, meaning you'll never get scalded or suddenly get hit with jets of freezing cold water. These showers are a good idea for family bathrooms, ensuring everyone has a pleasant experience with no unexpected surprises.
What do I need to know about water pressure?
Water pressure, measured in Bar, is a way of measuring how much strength the flow of water has as it travels through pipes. It is an extremely important aspect to look into prior to buying any shower as some showers will only work correctly if a certain level of pressure is supplied. Water pressure can be measured by using a pressure gauge, however enlisting the help and advice of a specialist is a good idea as this will give you more confidence when it comes to buying the right shower.
What about water systems?
You will need to find out which water system is in operation in your home. There will usually be one of the following items: a combination boiler, gravity system, or an unvented hot water system.
Combination boiler: These are boilers which normally allow for a higher water pressure. They are great for saving space as they do not require a separate hot water cylinder.
Gravity system: Comprising of a cold water tank and a water cylinder, these systems are a good choice when supplying water in larger houses. They can also be upgraded with pumps for increased pressure.
Unvented hot water system: Allowing a great volume of hot water to be stored, these units feature a water cylinder which is heated by either a boiler or immersion heater.
Which showers are suitable for me?
Looking back over the points raised in this guide, you need to decide exactly what you want from your shower. The overall style of your bathroom will dictate whether a traditional or modern approach is best, while taking your water pressure into account will also play a vital part in deciding what options are realistically suitable. A little research goes a long way when it comes to selecting the perfect shower.