Plumbing Fixtures - Other

Best Electric Showers and Plumbing Fixtures: A Practical Buying Guide

Introduction: Why the Right Plumbing Fixtures Matter

Picking the right plumbing fixtures for your bathroom or utility space is more than a cosmetic choice — it affects comfort, energy bills, and long-term reliability. Whether you’re replacing a tired shower or upgrading a whole bathroom, understanding the differences between electric showers, mixer showers, valves, and accessories will save you time and money. Think of plumbing fixtures like the shoes you wear daily: the wrong pair causes blisters, while the right set makes every step feel effortless. This guide walks you through electric shower models such as the Redring RBS7, plus other essential fixtures, installation basics, and maintenance pointers so you can shop confidently.

Why Choose an Electric Shower?

Electric showers are a smart choice when you want instant hot water without relying on a tank or central boiler. They heat cold water on demand, which is perfect for flats, older homes, or any place where a hot-water cylinder is absent. If you’ve ever wanted a steady stream of hot water even when someone else is using a tap, an electric shower can deliver that convenience. They are compact, often simple to install, and come in a range of power settings to match your water supply and preferences.

How Electric Showers Work

At their core, electric showers heat incoming cold water with an internal heating element as it passes through the unit. When you turn on the tap, water flows over the element and out through the showerhead at your chosen temperature. Because the water heats instantly, you’re not limited by stored hot water capacity — you can shower for as long as you like, provided the unit’s power and your water supply can keep up. Imagine a tiny kettle that heats only the water you use, every time you use it.

Power Ratings Explained in Imperial Terms

Electric shower power is commonly shown in metric units, but it’s useful to think in imperial equivalents. For example, a model referenced as 7.5 (the RBS7 model) equates to roughly 25,600 BTU per hour, or about 10.1 horsepower. Higher power generally means hotter water at higher flow rates, but also higher electrical demand. When selecting a unit, check your home’s supply: common household circuits may limit how powerful a shower you can safely run without upgrading wiring or breaker capacity.

Spotlight: Redring RBS7 Electric Shower

The Redring RBS7 electric shower is a compact, user-friendly option that’s popular for retrofit jobs and smaller bathrooms. The RBS7 model is designed for straightforward operation and dependable hot water on demand, making it a solid pick for many households. If you’re balancing budget, ease of installation, and reliable performance, this kind of model often hits the sweet spot. Below we’ll break down what to expect from a model like this and how it stacks up against other choices.

Key Features to Expect from the RBS7-Style Units

Units in this category typically include adjustable temperature control, a simple on/off switch, and a modest selection of spray patterns. They’re made to be compact — often a little larger than a textbook, measuring under a foot across — so they fit in tight spaces. Safety features such as thermal cut-outs and pressure-sensitive flow protection are common, helping prevent overheating or damage if water supply fluctuates. Many models also include a built-in showerhead and hose to keep installation tidy.

Installation Considerations for Electric Showers

Installing an electric shower requires a dedicated electrical supply and proper waterproofing. Expect an electrician to fit a dedicated breaker and run appropriately sized cable; this may involve upgrading a consumer unit if the home’s wiring is older. On the plumbing side, the unit connects to a cold-water feed; ensure yours delivers adequate flow — generally, a household with medium to high water pressure will get the best performance. Because of the electrical and waterwork involved, hire qualified professionals for a safe, code-compliant installation.

Other Plumbing Fixtures Worth Considering

While electric showers steal the spotlight for many installations, upgrading other fixtures can dramatically improve your bathroom’s experience. Think thermostatic mixer valves, contemporary showerheads, efficient taps, and water-saving accessories. A few targeted swaps — like a new valve or a high-efficiency econo-showerhead — can improve temperature stability and lower running costs without an overhaul. Consider the whole system when upgrading; the best results come from matching fixtures to your water pressure and habits.

Thermostatic Mixers and Mixer Showers

Thermostatic mixers regulate temperature by blending hot and cold supplies to a set point, maintaining that temperature even when pressure changes elsewhere in the house. They are ideal for family bathrooms because they reduce scald risk and deliver steady comfort. Mixer showers combine hot and cold supplies and often provide more powerful flow than electric units, but they rely on a hot-water source like a boiler or cylinder. Choose mixers when you have a reliable central hot-water system and want a stronger, spa-like flow.

Shower Heads and Valves — Styles, Flow Rates, and Finishes

Showerheads come in rain, handheld, and multi-function designs, with finishes ranging from chrome to brushed nickel. Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute, is a critical spec: standard heads often deliver 2.5 gallons per minute, while water-saving heads might cut that to 1.5–2.0 gallons per minute. Pair your showerhead with a matching valve that supports your desired flow and temperature control. A high-quality valve improves reliability and reduces the likelihood of leaks or uneven temperatures.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

Running costs vary by fixture type. Electric on-demand systems avoid wasting energy in a hot-water tank, but they draw significant instantaneous electricity when heating. For example, the RBS7-style unit running at full power (roughly 25,600 BTU/hr) will use noticeably more electricity than a low-power model. In contrast, mixer showers powered by an efficient central boiler may be cheaper to run if the boiler itself is modern and well-maintained. To cut costs, choose fixtures with flow restrictors, insulate associated pipework, and use thermostatic controls to avoid overheating water unnecessarily.

Sizing, Water Pressure, and Compatibility

Choosing the right size and type of fixture depends on your water pressure and plumbing layout. Low-pressure homes often benefit from electric showers designed for such conditions, which are tuned to produce acceptable flow at lower feed pressures. High-pressure homes can take advantage of mixer showers or power showers for stronger flow. Always check the minimum and maximum operating pressure of a unit in gallons per minute or PSI equivalents. A mismatch between fixture and supply will result in poor performance or short unit life.

Buying Guide: What to Look For

When shopping for a new electric shower or related plumbing fixtures, focus on reliability, safety features, and compatibility with your home’s water and electrical supply. Look for units with thermal cut-outs, anti-scald protection, and clear power or flow specifications given in imperial-friendly terms like BTU/hr, horsepower, or gallons per minute. Check warranty length and whether spare parts are easily available. User reviews that mention long-term reliability and straightforward servicing are invaluable when choosing between similarly priced options.

Budget vs. Premium Options

Entry-level fixtures provide solid performance for basic needs, but premium models offer better build quality, longer warranties, and more refined controls. A budget electric shower can be the right call for a rental property or spare bathroom, while a premium model with extra safety features and more precise temperature control suits a family bathroom. Factor in long-term energy costs and expected lifespan: a slightly pricier unit that runs more efficiently and lasts longer may cost less over five to ten years.

Installation Tips and Safety

Safety is paramount when electricity and water meet. Always use a qualified electrician for the electrical side of an electric shower, and a licensed plumber for any new pipework or valve changes. Make sure the unit is installed at a safe height from the bath or shower tray, and that all fittings are rated for wet-room use. If your home’s fuse box or wiring is older than about 15–20 years, consider having an electrician inspect it — older systems may not handle modern shower loads safely without an upgrade.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting Common Issues

Maintain your fixtures by descaling showerheads, checking seals for leaks, and testing thermostatic valves periodically. Hard-water areas can clog nozzles and reduce flow; a quick soak in a descaling solution every few months can restore performance. If a shower splutters, loses heat, or trips a breaker, it could be a flow issue, a faulty heating element, or an electrical problem — investigate flow blockages first, and call a pro for electrical faults. Regular maintenance prevents small issues from turning into costly repairs.

Where to Compare Models and Find the Best Deal

Before buying, compare models across multiple retailers and read independent user reviews. Look for comparison pages that list specifications in imperial-friendly units and include clear details about power, flow rate, warranty, and safety features. Comparison helps you spot bargains and avoid models with recurring user complaints. Always cross-check installation requirements to avoid unexpected electrical upgrades or plumber visits that can add to the final cost.

Conclusion

Upgrading your shower or bathroom fixtures is one of the most effective ways to improve daily comfort and add value to your home. Electric showers like the Redring RBS7-style units are excellent when you need on-demand hot water without a hot-water cylinder, while thermostatic mixers and premium showerheads deliver luxury and temperature stability. Focus on compatibility with your water supply, safety features, and long-term running costs when selecting fixtures. With the right choices and professional installation, you’ll enjoy better showers and fewer headaches down the line.