Installing an electric shower involves more than fitting a new unit, with water pressure, electrical capacity and existing connections all affecting the work and overall cost.
Electric showers heat water on demand using a cold water supply, without relying on a property’s hot water system. This makes them an option for bathrooms where an independent source of hot water is required.
However, installation involves both plumbing and electrical work, meaning the existing infrastructure must be checked before fitting begins. Triton recommends using a suitably qualified electrician for the electrical installation, with a qualified plumber where necessary.
A professional installation typically involves checking the water supply and pressure, assessing the electrical circuit, positioning the shower, connecting the supplies and testing the finished installation.
The electrical assessment will consider the shower’s power rating, cable size, circuit breaker and residual current device (RCD) protection. Upgrading from an 8.5kW shower to a 10.5kW model, for example, may require changes to the existing electrical installation.
Installation costs vary depending on the work required. Professional fitting labour can cost approximately £150 to £300, while a standard installation including the shower unit can cost around £400. First-time installations and upgrades requiring additional wiring or plumbing can cost considerably more.
Replacing an existing electric shower is generally more straightforward if the current water and electrical connections are compatible. However, homeowners should check the replacement unit’s power rating, dimensions, cable and water entry points, and minimum water pressure requirements before purchasing.
A straightforward replacement can often be completed within two to four hours, although new installations involving additional pipework, wiring or bathroom alterations will take longer.
Choosing the correct shower also depends on the home’s water pressure and electrical capacity. Higher-powered models can generally provide greater water flow, provided the existing electrical installation can support the additional demand.
Norcros plc (LON:NXR) is a leading B2B producer of branded bathroom and kitchen products for its UK, South African and selected export markets. The portfolio is characterised by strong individual brands, together providing product breadth and channel diversity from a strong supply chain base.
