How to fix an electric shower

From water pressure issues to leaks and inconsistent temperatures, there are a variety of problems which can unexpectedly crop up with electric showers.

But can you fix any of these issues yourself? Or do they always require a professional diagnosis and repair? In this guide, we’ll dive into some handy DIY solutions you can try before calling the professionals.

Safety first…

While we’ll run through several DIY hacks, we first need to mention that your safety should always be your top priority. So, before you attempt any of the below repairs, turn the power supply off and ensure the shower area is completely dry.

With the combination of water and electricity, you can never be too careful, so if you’re ever at all in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact a trained professional.

How to fix an electric shower

There are multiple problems that can crop up with an electric shower, some of which can be costly to fix (with average supply and installation fees costing upwards of £300). So, if you’re wondering how to avoid payday loans, and are hoping to get stuck into some DIY repairs, let’s dive into it.

Lack of power

A total lack of power is an issue for obvious reasons, but there are a couple of things you can try before calling for professional help.

1. Check the fuse box and circuit breaker

First things first, you’ll need to locate the circuit breaker and fuse box.

Next, do a simple reset of the circuit breaker to see if your shower powers up. If it does, then problem solved, but if the fuse keeps blowing or the system keeps tripping, there may be a leak (something which will require professional assistance).

2. Check the pull switch

Most electric showers have a pull cord which is used to turn the shower on and off. If the indicator light on the switch fails to light up, it could be faulty, and it might be time for a replacement.

Fluctuating temperatures

Another common fault with electric showers is an inability to maintain a consistent temperature. Whether your shower is too cold or too hot, or perhaps frequently alternating between the two, here are a couple of solutions you can try.

1. Deep clean the shower head

The flow of water can be restricted by mineral build-up, and this is often the culprit when it comes to temperature inconsistencies. So, we’d recommend removing the shower head and soaking it in a descaling solution for at least 30 minutes (white vinegar works particularly well).

Next, remove the shower head from the solution, then take a soft toothbrush to scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse, then simply reattach the head to the hose.

2. Check the temperature dial

A dial which is set too high can also cause issues with fluctuating water temperatures. So, another simple fix is to ensure this is set to the recommended temperature (in the UK this is typically somewhere between 39°C and 41°C).

It’s also important to note that the temperature dial may be faulty, and your only option in this case is a replacement.

Low water pressure

While low water pressure is inconvenient, it isn’t something that can’t be fixed. So, if you’re searching for an electric shower low-pressure fix, we’ve got you covered:

1. Clean the shower head

Again, cleaning the shower head can be a lifesaver when it comes to water flow issues. This is because limescale can build up fairly quickly, preventing adequate water flow.

You’ll simply need to follow the steps outlined above to descale it (this is especially important if you live in an area with hard water). And remember, it’s crucial to keep on top of descaling to avoid future issues.

2. Check the water supply valve

Another shower head low pressure fix is to check the supply valve. Simply locate the valve (which can usually be found near the water inlet), and make sure it is open, allowing enough water to flow through freely.

If you have your suspicions that it might be broken, you’ll need to call a professional for a replacement.

A leaking shower

Leaking showers are a huge pain and are unfortunately very common. So, why not give either of the below DIY hacks a go?

1. Check the hose

Many leaks are caused by loose or damaged shower hoses. Simply check for any signs of wear and tear (these can sometimes be quite subtle), and if you notice any cracking or discolouration, it might be time for a replacement.

Another top tip is to replace the washer where the hose connects to the appliance. This will ensure that everything remains watertight.

2. Check the shower head

Perhaps you’re wondering how to fix a dripping showerhead? Well, the issue with a dripping shower head usually lies with the internal washer. So, swapping out the old for the new will usually do the trick.

While each shower head is different, you’ll need to carefully loosen the head (usually held in place by a nut), then locate the rubber washer and remove it. Carefully fit your replacement washer, ensuring you screw everything back firmly in place.

How to unblock a shower drain

While this isn’t an issue with the electric shower itself, blocked shower drains can be quite a nuisance. So, we thought we’d give you a few top tips on how you can unblock one yourself.

A combination of hair buildup and hard water can be a disaster when it comes to shower drains, so what exactly can you do if yours is blocked?

Well, one simple option is to pour boiling water down the drain to see whether it dissolves any of the obstructions. If this fails, you’ll need to grab some baking soda and white vinegar as your next solution.

Simply pour a small cup of baking soda down the drain, then after a few minutes, follow this with a cup of vinegar. Leave this for around 30 minutes and follow with a jug of boiling water.

When to call a professional

As mentioned, you can never be too careful when it comes to dealing with water and electricity, and there are a few faults which require professional assistance from the outset.

If you notice any scorch marks or strong smells, you should stop immediately and call a trained technician. The same goes for if you notice that the unit is coming away from the wall. In this case, you’ll need to stop using the shower immediately and call a professional.

Furthermore, leaks requiring unit disassembly, as well as suspected blocked pipes, are issues which are best left to those who are trained.

Hopefully these insights on how to fix an electric shower have been helpful, and you’re now feeling ready to give the above DIY hacks a go. Just remember, electrical safety is paramount, so if you’re ever unsure, contact a professional plumber or electrician for advice.

Well, that’s everything from us, but if you’re looking for more handy tips, make sure to head over to the Moneyboat blog. There, you can dive into our guide on how to avoid winter car repairs, or read about 10 money mistakes to avoid.

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