Types of showers
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Showers are typically cubicles with a drain at the bottom, and a fixed shower head, or a shower head attached to a flexible hose, that produces a spray of water that allows users to clean themselves.
The Building Regulations Approved Document G: Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency suggests that the term ‘sanitary appliance’ means a ‘… WC, urinal, bath, shower, washbasin, sink, bidet and drinking fountain. It also includes appliances that are not connected to a water supply (e.g. composting toilet) or drain (e.g. waterless urinal).’
Showers are available in several different configurations based on factors such as power source, water pressure, water tank capacity, water supply and drainage options, space requirements and so on.
[edit] Water delivery systems
Two types of water delivery systems for showers are instantaneous and mixer.
[edit] Instantaneous showers
Instantaneous showers are generally designed to be connected directly to the mains water supply from the rising main. This type of shower does not require a separate supply of hot water, since incoming water is heated instantly within the device. The hot water is not provided by a central boiler, which means there is less likelihood of a disruption (unless there is a power cut in the case of instantaneous electric showers). The hot water is delivered in a thermostatically controlled manner that is not typically subject to fluctuations.
Most instantaneous showers are electrically powered (although there are some gas powered devices available). The kW rating of an instantaneous electric shower is an indication of the hot water flow - higher ratings are generally associated with better water flow.
In order to operate efficiently, an instantaneous shower must be provided with sufficient water pressure. This may require a shower pump (or booster pump) if the pressure from the mains is inadequate.
[edit] Mixer showers
Mixer showers are connected to pipes that supply hot and cold water. The desired water temperature is achieved by a mixer valve connecter to the shower head. Some shower mixers have a single control to regulate the flow and temperature of the water.
Mixer showers do not generally require electricity to operate unless a pump is needed. Under most conditions, they tend to provide a powerful shower flow as long as the water pressure is adequate.
Thermostatic valves can help to control the water temperature and pressure on mixer showers. If the pressure drops on either the hot or cold supply (perhaps due to an increase in usage elsewhere), the thermostatic valve compensates by adjusting the flow rate to moderate the temperature.
[edit] Shower configurations
A common configuration for a shower is positioned in or above a bathtub.
Alternatively, an independent shower cubicle may be a freestanding, corner installation (or quadrant) or built-in cupboard. These come in various shapes, including square, rectangular, curved, angled and so on.
There are low step and level access showers - as well as wet rooms - that offer accessibility benefits. There are also high end power showers, multi-head body showers, waterfall or rain showers, concealed showers, digital showers and smart showers.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Approved Document G.
- Bath.
- Level access shower.
- Rising main.
- Sanitaryware
- Shower.
- Types of sanitary appliances.
- Water tank.
- Wet room.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.