Showers are an essential part of our daily routines. Whether you’re preparing for a busy day or unwinding after work, the right shower can make a significant difference in your comfort and experience. However, with the variety of showers available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your home. This guide will walk you through the different types of showers, the key considerations to factor in when choosing one, and a breakdown of essential components like shower heads, trays, and water systems.
Considerations for Choosing a Type of Shower
Before we dive into the different types of showers, it’s important to first explore some of the key factors that will affect your decision. The type of shower you choose should align with your home’s plumbing system, your personal preferences, and your budget. Here are the major considerations to keep in mind:
Water Pressure
Water pressure plays a crucial role in your shower experience. High water pressure results in a stronger and more refreshing flow, while low pressure can make the shower feel less invigorating. Different types of showers require varying amounts of pressure to perform optimally.
- Low-pressure systems may not work well with power showers or digital showers, which require consistent and higher pressure to function efficiently.
- High-pressure systems are often more compatible with mixer showers and electric showers.
Water System
The type of water system in your home significantly influences the kind of shower you can install. Here are three primary types of water systems:
- Gravity-fed: A common system in older homes, where water is stored in a tank in the loft and gravity feeds it to your shower.
- Combi-boiler: A highly efficient system that heats water on demand, perfect for smaller homes where space-saving is a priority.
- Unvented: These systems store hot water in a pressurized tank and are ideal for high-pressure showers.
Each system has its pros and cons depending on your preferences for hot water supply and pressure.
Shower Head and Tray
Choosing the right shower head and shower tray is essential for a comfortable and functional shower.
- Shower Heads come in various shapes, sizes, and technologies, such as fixed heads, handheld options, rain showers, and multi-function heads. Consider your water pressure and style preferences when choosing a shower head.
- Shower Trays vary in shape and size, allowing for flexibility in design. Common materials include acrylic, stone resin, and ceramic. The tray’s size and shape should suit your bathroom’s layout.
Style and Shape
The style of your shower should complement the rest of your bathroom design. Modern, sleek, frameless designs are popular, but you can also opt for traditional enclosures or luxurious open showers with a more spa-like feel. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more decorative design, there’s a shower option for every aesthetic.
Boiler Tank
A boiler tank, or hot water cylinder, is a crucial part of your shower system, especially if you’re opting for an unvented or gravity-fed water system. The size and capacity of the tank will determine how much hot water is available for your shower. Larger families or households with multiple bathrooms may need a larger tank to meet their water demands.
The 4 Types of Showers
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a deeper dive into the four primary types of showers:
1. Digital Shower
A digital shower is a modern, tech-savvy solution that allows you to control both the temperature and the flow of water with a digital display. It offers an elevated shower experience with precise temperature settings, which can be adjusted easily. Digital showers are often linked to smart home systems, allowing users to set their preferences and even monitor energy usage.
- Pros: Accurate temperature control, sleek design, energy-efficient.
- Cons: Can be expensive, requires an electrical connection.
2. Electric Shower
An electric shower is one of the most energy-efficient types, as it heats water directly from the mains, eliminating the need for a hot water tank. It’s ideal for homes with low water pressure and can be installed easily in most properties. Electric showers are also a great choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Pros: No need for a hot water tank, energy-efficient, affordable.
- Cons: Water temperature can fluctuate, limited flow rate.
3. Mixer Shower
A mixer shower is the most common type found in homes today. This type mixes hot and cold water together before it enters the showerhead, offering a balanced water flow and temperature. Mixer showers work best when paired with high-pressure water systems, as they provide the best performance when water pressure is consistent.
- Pros: Consistent temperature, can be used with various water systems.
- Cons: Requires a constant supply of hot water, might not work well with low-pressure systems.
4. Power Shower
A power shower combines the functionality of a mixer shower with an electric pump, increasing water pressure. This type of shower is perfect for homes with low water pressure, as it boosts the flow rate and offers a more satisfying shower experience. Power showers are often used in homes with gravity-fed water systems or older plumbing that doesn’t support higher pressures.
- Pros: Great for low-pressure homes, strong and invigorating shower.
- Cons: Requires more space for installation, higher energy consumption.
How Will I Choose the Type of Shower?
Choosing the right shower depends on your personal needs, the layout of your bathroom, and the type of plumbing system you have. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you decide:
- Consider Your Water System: If you have a combi-boiler or unvented system, you can opt for a digital, electric, or mixer shower. For gravity-fed systems, you might prefer a power shower for higher water pressure.
- Evaluate Your Water Pressure: Low water pressure? Consider an electric or power shower to boost water flow. High water pressure? A digital or mixer shower will offer the best experience.
- Space and Style Preferences: Think about the design and style of your bathroom. Do you prefer a modern digital shower or a classic mixer model? The size and shape of the shower tray will also play a role in your decision.
- Energy Efficiency: If you’re looking to save on energy, an electric shower or digital shower could be the right choice. These types are designed to be more efficient, especially in terms of water heating.
- Budget: Digital showers and power showers tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, while electric and mixer showers offer more affordable options.
- Professional Installation: Some showers, particularly digital models and power showers, may require professional installation. Be sure to factor in the cost of installation when budgeting for your new shower.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of shower for your home can be a fun but daunting task, considering the many options available. By taking into account your water pressure, system, budget, and aesthetic preferences, you can select the perfect shower that enhances your daily routine. Whether you opt for a sleek digital shower, a powerful power shower, a budget-friendly electric shower, or a reliable mixer shower, there’s a solution out there to suit every home.
Take your time evaluating your needs and preferences, and consult with a professional plumber or bathroom installer if you’re unsure which type of shower is the best fit. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy a refreshing, invigorating shower experience every day.