Having your electric shower suddenly stop working can be a real pain, especially when you’re rushing to get ready in the morning. Let’s walk through the most common issues and fixes that could get your shower back up and running quickly.
First Steps to Check
Before calling a professional, there are some basic checks you can do yourself. I always tell my friends to start with the obvious – check if power is reaching the shower unit. Look for any tripped switches in your electrical panel, particularly the RCD (Residual Current Device). This is often the culprit, especially after thunderstorms or power fluctuations.
Water Pressure Problems
If you’re getting power but no water, or just a weak trickle, there’s likely a pressure issue. I’ve seen this countless times – the shower head gets clogged with limescale, especially in hard water areas. Try removing the shower head and checking if water flows better. If it does, a simple descaling solution might be all you need.
Common Electrical Issues
Electric showers typically fail for a few key reasons:
– Faulty heating elements
– Broken microswitch
– Terminal block problems
– Worn solenoid coil
The heating element is often the first component to go. If you’re getting cold water only, this is likely your problem. You might notice the shower working intermittently before it fails completely – that’s usually a warning sign.
When to Call a Professional
While it’s tempting to try DIY repairs, I always advise against messing with electrical components unless you’re qualified. Here’s when you should definitely call an electrician:
– If there’s any burning smell
– When you hear unusual buzzing sounds
– If the unit is leaking internally
– When the RCD keeps tripping repeatedly
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To avoid future problems, I recommend regular maintenance. Every few months, descale your shower head and check the cable connections aren’t loose. If your shower starts making unusual noises or the temperature becomes erratic, don’t wait for it to fail completely – get it checked out early.
Remember, electric showers typically last 5-10 years with proper care. If yours is approaching this age and giving you trouble, it might be more cost-effective to replace rather than repair. Modern units are more energy-efficient and often come with better features too.
Keep in mind that water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so always err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure about anything, it’s better to spend money on a professional than risk your safety trying to fix it yourself.
