The Role of Accessible Showers in Adapted Bathrooms

When creating your adapted bathroom, one element to consider is the shower. In this article, we will explore the various shower options available for adapted bathrooms, along with their features and benefits. Whether you are creating a new bathroom or renovating your current one to increase accessibility, this information will help you choose a shower that meets your needs and preferences.

What is the difference between thermostatic showers and electric showers?

Electric showers

Electric showers are stand-alone units that heat water on-demand as it passes through the shower unit. They connect directly to the cold water supply and therefore don’t require a separate hot water system.

Another advantage of shower seats is that they increase accessibility in the bathroom. By incorporating a seat into the shower area, individuals who find it difficult or tiring to stand for extended periods can still enjoy showering. Shower seats accommodate a range of users, including older adults, individuals with disabilities and those recovering from surgeries or injuries. They ensure that individuals can access the shower independently and comfortably. Additionally, for individuals who require the assistance of a caregiver, a shower seat facilitates the caregiving process by offering a stable platform for showering assistance.

Advantages

Electric showers feature an integrated heating element that instantly heats the water as it flows through the shower unit. This allows you to enjoy a constant supply of hot water without having to rely on a separate hot water system or boiler. This is a great feature for an adapted bathroom as it helps provide a comfortable showering experience for individuals with temperature sensitivity issues. The electric heating component offers flexibility in temperature, so that you can adjust the water temperature to your preference easily. These showers also have built-in temperature controls to prevent water reaching a high enough temperature to scald the user.

Furthermore, electric showers are known for being energy efficient, making them an environmentally-friendly choice. Traditional water heating systems heat and store large amounts of hot water, but electric showers only heat the water that is being used. By heating water as it flows through the shower unit, energy consumption is reduced and heat loss through pipework is minimised, helping reduce utility costs. This efficient design not only benefits the environment but also provides homeowners with significant energy savings over time.

These showers can be installed in any bathroom. All that is needed is a cold water supply and an electrical connection, making electric showers a flexible choice for both new constructions and bathroom renovations. An electric shower can be seamlessly integrated into your bathroom without the need for extensive plumbing modifications. This adaptability makes electric showers a popular and accessible option for homeowners seeking a hassle-free shower installation.

Disadvantages

Electric showers tend to have a simpler design, with a focus on function rather than aesthetic appeal. If you are looking for a shower that seamlessly integrates into your bathroom and matches your design preferences, then you may find that a different shower type can offer a wider range of design variations and will suit you better.

Additionally, electric showers rely on the pressure of the incoming cold water supply to operate. This means that in areas with low water pressure, you may find that the water pressure of an electric shower is lower compared to other types of showers. This is a factor that you should consider if you prefer a shower that has high water pressure. However, some electric showers are equipped with a built-in pump to help mitigate this issue.

Purchase: Electric Showers

Thermostatic showers

Thermostatic showers, on the other hand, rely on a pre-existing hot water supply, typically from a boiler or hot water cylinder. These showers incorporate advanced thermostatic controls to ensure precise temperature regulation.

Advantages

Thermostatic showers are designed to maintain a consistent and safe water temperature, regardless of any fluctuations in the hot or cold water supply elsewhere in the house. This is a key advantage of thermostatic showers as it helps provide a comfortable showering experience while also prioritising safety. They give you the ability to adjust the water temperature to the desired level and maintain it throughout the duration of your shower, and therefore eliminate the risk of sudden temperature changes that could result in scalding or discomfort.

They are also equipped with advanced anti-scald devices, making them an excellent choice for ensuring the safety of users, especially children and the elderly. The device monitors and controls the water temperature, preventing it from reaching high levels that could cause scalding.

Thermostatic showers also offer a range of additional features that enhance the showering experience. One feature is adjustable flow rates, so that users can customise the water pressure to their liking. Additionally, these showers often come with multiple shower head options, including handheld or rain shower heads, allowing individuals to choose the showering style that best suits their preferences. These features provide versatility and convenience, making showering comfortable and easy.

These showers are available in a wide range of designs, finishes and materials, allowing individuals to choose a shower that seamlessly integrates with their bathroom design. From sleek and minimalist designs to ornate and luxurious options, thermostatic showers offer versatility in meeting various style preferences. Whether you desire a contemporary, modern look or a more classic and timeless appeal, thermostatic showers can be a great option if you desire a product that combines functionality and aesthetics.

Disadvantages

Thermostatic showers tend to be more expensive than traditional shower systems. The additional features such as precise thermostatic controls, anti-scald mechanisms, and adjustable flow rates add to the overall cost. However, there is a wide range of thermostatic showers available, so you may be able to find one in your desired price range. Additionally, professional installation is recommended and this can further increase costs.

Also, they may have compatibility issues with certain plumbing systems or existing bathroom configurations. It's important to ensure that the shower system is compatible with your water supply and plumbing setup before installation. In some cases, to ensure the shower functions correctly, additional modifications or adjustments may need to be made.

Purchase: Thermostatic Mixer Showers