Beatrice Lang
A weak electric shower can be disappointing and frustrating. There are many reasons for low water pressure in the shower, and several ways to fix it. This article will discuss the common causes of low water pressure and outline some quick and easy solutions.
How to fix electric shower low pressure
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Check for | Leaking shower hose, limescale build-up, or worn O-rings |
| Common reasons | Undersized supply piping, clogged pipes, "flow restricting" or "water saving" shower head |
| Quick fixes | Install a pump, replace the solenoid coil, install a pressurised unvented cylinder, or install a cold water accumulator tank |
| Pump brands | Grundfos, Stuart Turner, Salamander |
| Long-term fixes | Overhaul plumbing system, replace with a pressurised cylinder |
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What You'll Learn
Check for a leaking shower hose
If you're experiencing low water pressure in your electric shower, one of the first things you should do is check for a leaking shower hose. The shower hose transports water from the shower unit to the showerhead. If the hose is leaking, not all of the water will reach the showerhead, and the pressure will be lost through the leak.
To check for a leaking shower hose, first, disconnect the hose from the shower unit and the showerhead. Then, fill the hose with water and look for any leaks. If the hose is leaking, you'll need to replace it. Another component to check is the O-rings between the hose and the shower unit, as well as between the hose and the showerhead. These O-rings can become worn out or damaged, leading to leaks.
It's important to note that a leaking shower hose is often a rare occurrence. More commonly, low water pressure can be caused by undersized supply piping, especially in older houses with older plumbing systems. Additionally, your home water system may be clogged, especially if you have older iron pipes that are vulnerable to rust and obstruction.
If you've checked for a leaking shower hose and the issue doesn't seem to be there, consider contacting a professional plumber. They can help diagnose the problem and suggest more comprehensive solutions, such as installing a shower pump or even overhauling your plumbing system if necessary.
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Install a shower pump
Installing a shower pump is a quick and effective way to fix low water pressure in your shower. It is a relatively simple task that can be completed by a plumber in around a day, or you can even install it yourself if you are confident in your DIY abilities.
Firstly, you need to select a suitable pump for your needs. There are two types of shower pumps: negative head and positive head. The negative head pump is ideal for small shower heads, providing a low-pressure experience, while the positive head pump is suitable for normal shower setups that need more water pressure. If you have a power shower or bigger shower head, you may require a higher pressure rating of 2.5 or 3 bar.
Once you have chosen the right pump, you need to consider where to install it. It is important to place the pump in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Regulations state that the pump must be at least 2 feet or 600mm away from the shower tray or basin. It should also be easily accessible for servicing and cleaning.
Next, you will need to plumb the pump. Start by flushing the pipework to remove any debris. Then, connect the hot and cold-water feed pipes to the pump, following the instructions provided with your specific shower pump. Run a bucket of water through the pipes to remove any remaining debris and ensure the water runs clear. Reconnect the connection hoses and wires to the pump, and then turn on the electrical supply to test it.
Finally, check the pump thoroughly for any leaks. If you encounter any issues, disconnect the hoses and start the process again.
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Change the solenoid coil
Changing the Solenoid Coil in an Electric Shower
The solenoid coil is generally found at the bottom of the shower unit and is made up of the valve and a detachable coil, which together form a right angle resembling a lowercase "r". Before attempting to replace the solenoid coil, it is important to take safety precautions to protect yourself from potential electric shocks. Ensure that you have turned off the water supply and the electricity to the shower.
To check if the solenoid coil is broken, you will need a multimeter capable of measuring its resistance. Set your meter to measure in kilo-ohms and place the two meters on the corresponding terminals of the solenoid. If the reading is below the measure, then the coil needs to be replaced.
The process of replacing the solenoid coil will vary depending on the model and manufacturer of your shower. In some cases, you may need to remove the entire valve to access the coil. However, some brands like Triton have a removable plate at the bottom of the unit that provides access to the solenoid. Once you have accessed the solenoid, use two screwdrivers on either side of the top of the coil to gently ease it forward and separate it from the rest of the valve.
After successfully replacing the solenoid coil, turn the water and electricity back on. If the previous coil was faulty, your shower should now be functioning properly.
Replacing the solenoid coil is a relatively simple fix that can often resolve issues with low water pressure in electric showers. It is a cost-effective solution that can extend the life of your shower and improve its performance.
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Install a pressurised unvented cylinder
Installing a pressurised unvented cylinder is a long-term solution to fix low water pressure in your shower. It involves replacing your current plumbing system, specifically removing the cold water tank and replacing it with a pressurised cylinder that draws water directly from the mains.
This is a complex plumbing procedure that will require a highly qualified plumber. It may even involve replacing your entire plumbing system. This option is ideal if you have an older house and want to update and modernise your water system.
Unvented cylinders have become increasingly popular since 1986. They can be installed anywhere in the home, freeing up space that would otherwise be taken up by a water tank. They deliver water at a higher pressure and more reliable flow rate than traditional vented systems. They are also quieter and reduce the risk of water contamination.
However, unvented cylinders are more expensive to install than vented systems due to the extreme pressure they operate under and the need for additional safety features. They must be installed and maintained by a qualified technician with G3 qualifications. Additionally, if the mains water supply is interrupted for any reason, you will be left without access to hot water.
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Check for undersized supply piping
One of the most common reasons for low water pressure in showers is undersized supply piping. This is often the case in older houses where the original plumbing system is still in place. This will restrict the amount of water that can enter your home and reach the shower. Replacing the piping can be quite disruptive, so previous homeowners may not have addressed the issue.
If you suspect that your water pressure issues are due to undersized supply piping, you should first consult a professional plumber. They can assess your plumbing system and determine if undersized piping is indeed the root cause of your low water pressure. A qualified plumber will be able to advise you on the best course of action and recommend potential solutions.
In some cases, they may suggest installing a pressurised unvented cylinder, which involves removing the cold water tank and replacing it with a pressurised cylinder that draws water directly from the mains. This solution can be complex and may require replacing your entire plumbing system. It is important to weigh the benefits of improved water pressure against the costs and disruptions of such a significant plumbing overhaul.
Another option to address undersized supply piping is to install a shower pump. A shower pump increases water pressure by forcing water through the showerhead at a higher rate. While this option may not address the underlying issue of undersized piping, it can provide a quick and effective solution to improve water pressure in your shower. It is important to consult a professional plumber to ensure any modifications are safe and comply with regulations.
If you are considering a shower pump, it is worth noting that there are different types available, such as positive and negative head pumps. It is recommended to choose a pump from reputable brands like Grundfos, Stuart Turner, or Salamander. Consult a professional plumber to determine the most suitable pump for your specific plumbing system and shower setup.
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Frequently asked questions
If you notice a trickle of water coming out of the showerhead, you may have low water pressure. You can also try turning the water on all the way and measuring the flow with a container.
There are several potential causes of low water pressure in electric showers, including undersized supply piping, clogged pipes, and a worn-down heating element. If you have an older home, your pipes may be made of iron, which is vulnerable to rust and obstruction from dirt, gravel, or sand.
There are several potential solutions to fixing low water pressure in your electric shower, including installing a shower pump, a pressurised unvented cylinder, or a new showerhead with larger openings. If you have a leaking shower hose or worn O-rings, repairing or replacing these parts may also improve water pressure. For more complex issues, it is recommended to consult a professional plumber.
