Beatrice Lang
A leaking electric shower can be caused by several issues, from a faulty Pressure Relief Device (PRD) to a blocked hose or a build-up of limescale. Before attempting any repairs, it is crucial to prioritise safety by turning off the electricity and water supply to the shower. Once this is done, you can begin troubleshooting. Check for a worn seal or damaged washers, which can be replaced with new ones. If the problem persists, it may be due to a faulty showerhead, a blocked inlet pipe, or an internal part that needs replacing, such as the flow cartridge. While some issues can be fixed with simple repairs or cleaning, others may require the help of a professional plumber or electrician.
How to fix a leaking electric shower
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety Precautions | Turn off water at the main, turn off power at the main breaker, remove the fuse from the fusebox |
| Common Causes | Busted Pressure Relief Device (PRD), Limescale buildup, Blocked shower hose, Loose pipe supplying the shower, Broken seal, Faulty plumbing, Worn shower cartridge, Worn rubber washer, Worn O-ring |
| Fixes | Replace PRD, Descale shower, Replace shower hose, Tighten loose pipes, Replace broken seal, Fix faulty plumbing, Replace shower cartridge, Replace rubber washer, Replace O-ring |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the source of the leak
Before attempting any repairs, it is important to identify the source of the leak.
Firstly, turn off the electricity supply to the shower as a safety precaution. Electric showers combine water and electricity, which can be deadly. You should also turn off the water supply to avoid any further leakage.
Once this is done, you can begin to inspect the shower for the source of the leak. If the water is leaking from the bottom of the shower unit, this could be due to a build-up of pressure. Showers are equipped with a pressure relief device (PRD) that activates when the pressure in the hot water tank gets too high, releasing water from a valve at the bottom of the unit. A blocked shower hose can cause the pressure to increase, triggering the PRD.
Another common cause of a leaking electric shower is a build-up of limescale or minerals, which can cause blockages and affect water flow. Check the shower hose and showerhead for signs of limescale or damage. If you live in a hard water area, you are more likely to experience this issue.
If the leak is coming from the wall unit, the seal could be broken, or there may be damage to the soldering between the water inlet pipes and the shower valve. Internal parts, such as the flow cartridge, may also need replacing.
If you are unable to identify the source of the leak, it is recommended to call a plumber or a professional for assistance.
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Turn off the water and power supply
Before attempting any repairs to your electric shower, it is crucial to prioritise your safety. As electric showers involve a combination of water and electricity, it is essential to disconnect the power supply to eliminate potential hazards. Here is a detailed guide on turning off the water and power supply:
Turning Off the Water Supply:
- Locate the main water supply valve: This valve is typically located near the shower or in a utility area. It is often a small handle or knob that controls the water flow to the shower.
- Turn off the water supply: Ensure that you firmly shut off the valve to prevent any water flow to the shower. You may need to turn it clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the type of valve.
- Check for residual drips: After turning off the water supply, some residual water may continue to drip from the showerhead or pipes. Keep a towel handy to wipe away any remaining water.
Turning Off the Power Supply:
- Locate the main breaker box: The breaker box controls the electricity supply to your home. It is usually located in a utility room, garage, basement, or closet.
- Identify the correct breaker: The breaker box contains multiple switches or breakers that correspond to different electrical circuits in your home. Find the breaker labelled for the shower or bathroom.
- Turn off the power: Flip the breaker switch to the "off" position. This will disconnect the electricity supply to the shower. Make sure it is firmly in the off position to ensure the power is completely disconnected.
- Remove the fuse: For added safety, locate the fuse associated with the shower circuit and remove it from the fusebox. This provides an extra layer of assurance that the power is off.
By following these steps, you can confidently turn off both the water and power supply to your electric shower, creating a safe environment for you to begin troubleshooting and repairing the leak. Remember, always put safety first when dealing with electricity and water.
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Check for a blown PRD or limescale buildup
If you suspect that your electric shower leak is due to a blown PRD or limescale buildup, there are several steps you can take to check and address the issue.
Checking for a Blown PRD
Pressure relief devices (PRDs) are safety features in electric showers that prevent dangerous pressure build-up in the heater tank. If the PRD blows, it will need to be replaced. Before replacing it, however, you should identify what caused it to blow in the first place to prevent the issue from recurring.
To check if your PRD has blown, you will need to remove the shower's cover and locate the PRD near the outlet pipe. On some models, such as the Triton T80z electric shower, it is found at the bottom of the shower, on the back of the outlet pipe. Once located, unscrew the PRD and look inside for a small black ball. If the ball is missing, it has likely been blasted when the PRD blew, indicating that the device has failed and needs replacement.
Checking for Limescale Buildup
Limescale buildup is a common issue, especially in hard water areas. It can lead to reduced water flow and affect shower performance by clogging the showerhead and building up inside the shower unit. To check for limescale buildup, regularly inspect your showerhead for signs of a white, chalky substance. If you notice limescale, you can try removing the showerhead and soaking it in a vinegar solution for about an hour to descale it. You can also use special limescale removers or a mixture of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.
In addition to the showerhead, limescale can build up inside the shower unit. Unfortunately, there is little you can do to prevent this. However, you can try to lengthen the heating elements and widen the gaps between the coils to ensure the heating tank runs at a consistent temperature. Installing a water softener can also help solve the limescale problem.
By regularly checking for and addressing blown PRDs and limescale buildup, you can help maintain the proper functioning of your electric shower and prevent leaks.
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Replace the showerhead or hose if needed
If you've tried the above steps and your shower is still leaking, it could be time to replace the showerhead or hose. Showerheads can leak due to a build-up of dirt, grime, and limescale, which can affect water flow and create blockages. A leaking showerhead could also be caused by a worn or damaged inner seal, or a worn flow cartridge in the shower valve.
Before replacing the showerhead, try cleaning it. Remove the showerhead and place it in a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water. Let it soak for a few minutes, then use a toothbrush to remove any remaining grime. Check the O-ring or washer for any signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary. If the O-ring or washer looks fine, apply some thread seal tape to the threads on the tip of the pipe stem to form a protective seal.
If the showerhead is still leaking, it's time to replace it. First, locate and turn off your main water supply to avoid any accidents. Then, remove the showerhead and take it to your local hardware store to find an identical model or a suitable replacement. Once you have the new showerhead, follow the manufacturer's instructions to install it. Turn on the water supply and check for any signs of leakage.
If the shower hose is blocked, this can cause pressure to increase and lead to leaks. Hoses are cheap and easy to replace. Before replacing the hose, turn off the water supply and disconnect the hose from the showerhead and the water supply. Take the hose to your local hardware store to find an identical model or a suitable replacement. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the new hose, then turn on the water supply and check for any signs of leakage.
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Call an electrician or plumber for help
Electric showers combine water and electricity, which can be a deadly combination. If you are uncomfortable dealing with this, it is best to call an electrician or a plumber to fix your leaking shower.
Electric showers can leak due to several reasons. A common cause is a faulty Pressure Relief Device (PRD). This device prevents a dangerous build-up of pressure in your water tank. If the PRD fails, it needs to be replaced immediately. Another common cause of leaks is a build-up of limescale or minerals. This can block pipes and hoses, causing a build-up of pressure and leaks.
If you notice a leak, it is important to act quickly. Turn off the water and power supply to the shower. If you are unsure how to do this, or you are uncomfortable dealing with electrical appliances, call a professional. Electricians and plumbers have the necessary experience and qualifications to deal with these issues.
If the shower is leaking from the wall unit, the seal may be broken, or there could be damage to the internal parts. In this case, it is best to call a plumber to assess the problem and make the necessary repairs. They will be able to identify if there is a problem with the soldering or if internal parts, such as the flow cartridge, need replacing.
If you notice a burning smell or the shower will not turn on, this could indicate an electrical fault. In this case, do not use the shower and call an electrician immediately.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few potential causes for this. The most likely source of a leak is a blown Pressure Relief Device (PRD). Other causes include a build-up of limescale or minerals, a damaged hose, a worn seal, or a faulty showerhead.
First, turn off the water supply. Then, remove the showerhead and check the washer inside. If it looks worn or damaged, replace it with a new one. If the washer looks fine, apply some thread seal tape to the threads on the tip of the pipe stem to form a protective seal. Finally, turn on the water supply again and check for any signs of leakage.
Before you begin, make sure to turn off the water and power at the main breaker and remove the related fuse from the fusebox.
