Best Showers For Combi Boilers Review & Price Guide

What Is The Best Shower for a Combi Boiler – A Buyer’s Guide

As a combi boiler owner, it’s such a nice feeling to have a dependable and efficient shower system.

Not only does a high-quality shower offer a rejuvenating experience, but it can also lower energy and water bills. With a plethora of options, selecting the ideal shower for your combi boiler can seem challenging, but, don’t worry, we’re here to assist.

This guide will give you the best and most important information to make an informed choice and find the right shower for your combi boiler.

What makes a good shower for a combi boiler?

From water flow rate to temperature control, style to energy efficiency, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to make the best pick for your home. Whether you’re seeking a mixer shower, a powerful shower, a stylish design, or an eco-friendly solution, we’ve got you covered.

Read on to find the best shower for your combi boiler! Or if you want to upgrade your combi boiler to a better one, click get a quote now!

How to Choose the Right Shower for Your Combination Boiler?

To ensure that your shower is right for your combi boiler, you need to consider several factors. Here are the steps you can follow:

Check compatibility

Make sure that the shower you are considering is compatible with your combi boiler’s hot water system. Some showers may require a separate pump or valve, while others may work directly with your boiler. Check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult a professional to confirm compatibility.

Determine flow rate

The flow rate is the amount of water that your boiler can deliver per minute through your shower head. A higher flow rate combi boiler can provide a more powerful shower, but can also increase your water and energy bills. Consider the flow rate you need based on the size of your bathroom and the number of people using the shower.

Consider temperature control

Look for a shower with a thermostatic valve, which will automatically adjust the temperature to maintain a consistent flow of hot water. This will ensure that you have a comfortable and consistent showering experience, even if someone else turns on a tap in the house.

Choose the right style

Consider the style that fits your bathroom decor, whether it be a traditional fixed showerhead, a handheld option, or a modern, wall-mounted option. The style you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the look you are trying to achieve in your bathroom.

Evaluate pressure

Make sure the showerhead you choose has a high enough pressure to provide a satisfying shower experience. You may need to consider installing a pump or valve to increase the pressure if your combi boiler does not provide enough.

Evaluate energy efficiency

Consider an eco-friendly showerhead, which can reduce your water and energy usage. This will help you save money on your bills and be more environmentally friendly.

If you have a more powerful combi boiler such as a 40kw one, then you can expect good flow rates but potentially higher biills. An eco friendly showerhead can help counteract this.

Consider warranty and after-sales support

Make sure the shower and combi boiler you choose has a good warranty and after-sales support, in case you encounter any problems in the future. This will give you peace of mind and ensure that you can get any issues resolved quickly.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your shower is right for your combi boiler and provide you with the perfect showering experience.

How to know what hot water system I have?

To determine the type of boiler system you have, you can follow these steps:

Check the boiler

If you have a combi boiler, it will typically be located near a small space such as a kitchen cupboard and will be connected to the water supply and heating system.

There are usually 5 pipes underneath a combi boiler, 3 for a system boiler and 2 for a regular. Combi boilers are often small and compact and will have a single unit that provides both hot water and heating.

Consult the manual

Look for the manual or documentation for your boiler and water system. The manual should provide information about the type of system you have and how it works.

Call a Professional

If you are unsure about the type of water system you have, consider calling a plumber or heating engineer. They will be able to assess your system and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

By following these steps, you should be able to determine the type of water system you have and ensure that you choose the right shower for your needs.

There are several types of water systems commonly used in homes and buildings, including:

Combination or Combi boiler system:

• Provide both heating and hot water on demand, without the need for a separate hot water cylinder or cold water tank.
• They take water directly from the mains supply and heat it as required, which can make them more efficient and cost-effective for smaller homes.
• Combi boilers are extremely effective since they don’t require a cold water storage tank or a hot water storage cylinder when you use or switch on a tap because they heat water from the mains directly.

Unvented hot water systems:

• Store hot water in a cylinder, which is typically located in an airing cupboard or another accessible location.
• They use a pump or an unvented system to increase water pressure, allowing hot water to be delivered to multiple taps and showerheads

Pressurised hot water cylinder systems:

• System boilers store hot water in a pressure vessel also known as hot water cyldiner, which is typically located in an airing cupboard or similar
• They provide high-pressure hot water to multiple taps and showerheads, without the need for a separate hot water cylinder. These are the best for powerful showers.

Gravity fed systems:

• Use gravity to move water from a storage tank, typically located in the loft, to the taps and showerheads in the property.
• These systems rely on the height of the tank to create sufficient pressure, so they tend to be most suitable for properties with room on the highest floors or loft space.

Read our boiler replacement guide for more information.

High-pressure water systems

A high-pressure water system is a plumbing and heating system that delivers water at high pressure to various fixtures, such as showers, and taps. High-pressure water systems are designed to provide a strong and consistent flow of water, even in homes with low water pressure.

High-pressure water systems provide a more enjoyable and efficient showering experience and can help to save water and energy by reducing the amount of time and water needed to run the shower.

Which is the best shower for a combi boiler?

Still, searching for a mixer shower? Great, let me inform you that best mixer showers come in three basic types. Knowing the different types of mixer showers will assist you in choosing the best one for your specific needs. So let’s dive in and explore these types!

The best types of showers for combi boilers

Thermostatic Mixer Showers

Thermostatic mixer showers are a type of mixer shower that has a built-in special valve that controls the amount of hot and cold water that mixes in your shower from your combi boiler when in use. These are genearlly mid-price showers and can ensure that you get the perfect temperature when required by controlling the hot water flow.

However, when buying a new shower, there are several important features that you should consider:

Hot Water Flow rate

The hot water flow rate of a shower refers to the amount of water that is delivered per minute. A higher flow rate means that more water is available for use, which can be especially important for households with multiple bathrooms or people who like to take really long showers – nothing wrong with that!

Water pressure

Water pressure refers to the amount of force that water is delivered with. High water pressure can help to provide a more satisfying and enjoyable showering experience, while low water pressure can be frustrating and make it difficult to rinse soap and shampoo from hair.

Temperature controls

A good shower should allow you to adjust the temperature to your liking, ensuring that the water is always comfortable and safe to use.

Safety features

Safety features, such as automatic shut-off and anti-scald valves, are important for protecting against burns and other injuries.

Style and design

Showers are available in a wide range of styles and designs, from modern and sleek to traditional and ornate. Choose a shower that fits the style of your bathroom and complements the overall aesthetic of your home.

Installation

Consider the installation requirements and compatibility with your existing plumbing and water system when selecting a shower. Some showers are designed to be installed easily and quickly, while others may require more advanced plumbing knowledge and tools.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficient showers can help to reduce your energy bills and lower your carbon footprint. Look for showers with low flow rate options, water-saving features, and efficient heating elements.

By considering these features, you can find a shower that meets your needs and provides a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable showering experience.t automatically maintains the water temperature at a consistent level, even if someone turns on a tap elsewhere in the house. This type of mixer shower is more convenient and provides a more consistent showering experience.

Manual Mixer Shower

This type of mixer shower has separate controls for the hot & cold water, which need to be adjusted manually to reach the desired temperature. It is the most basic and traditional type of mixer shower.

Digital Mixer Shower

This type of mixer shower uses advanced technology, such as digital displays, to control the temperature and flow rate of the water. Some models may also have additional features, such as timed shut-off, multiple showerhead options, and even smartphone compatibility.

Choosing the right type of mixer shower will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as the type of water system you have. By understanding these three basic types of mixer showers, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the perfect showering experience.

Can a Combi Boiler Run Two Showers?

It’s possible for a combi boiler to operate two showers, but the water pressure and flow rate may be impacted. Combi boilers are designed to provide hot water as needed, without storing it like conventional systems. This heating-on-demand approach can lead to reduced flow rate and pressure.

When two showers are in use simultaneously, the water pressure and flow rate can decrease further, leading to a drop in shower temperature and pressure. This can result in an unsatisfying showering experience and even impact the functioning of other appliances, like the washing machine or dishwasher.

To guarantee that a combi boiler can run two showers efficiently, it’s even more important to choose a boiler with sufficient output to fulfil the household’s demands. An undersized boiler will struggle to provide enough hot water for two showers, while an oversized one may use excessive energy.

In conclusion, a combi boiler can run two showers, but it’s important to take into consideration the water pressure and flow rate and choose a boiler that is appropriately sized for the household’s needs.

Who are mixer showers suitable for?

Mixer showers are a good choice for people who want to conserve water and energy. With a mixer shower, you have the ability to control the flow rate and temperature, which can help to minimize waste and reduce energy bills.

Additionally, mixer showers are often compatible with a range of water systems, including low-pressure systems, which can make them a great choice for homes in rural areas or older properties.

By considering these features, you can find a shower that meets your needs and provides a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable showering experience.

Why choose a digital shower?

• Easy temperature and flow rate control with a digital interface
• Improved safety with automatic shut-off and anti-scald valves
• More convenient with the ability to preset and store settings
• Ability to control shower remotely or with voice commands
• Energy efficiency through flow rate control and efficient heating elements
• Stylish and modern design to complement modern bathroom styles

Who are power showers suitable for?

Power showers are a good option for homes with low water pressure. If you live in an area with low water pressure, a power shower can help to increase the flow rate and provide a more satisfying showering experience.

Power showers are equipped with pumps that can boost water pressure, which can help to overcome the limitations of low water pressure and provide a consistent and enjoyable showering experience.

Why choose a power shower?

• High flow rate and water pressure for a satisfying and invigorating shower experience
• Suitable for households with low water pressure
• Adjustable temperature control for a comfortable and safe showering experience
• Ability to run multiple showerheads or body jets for a luxurious spa-like experience
• Easy installation with compatibility with most water systems
• Energy efficient with options for flow rate control and efficient heating elements.

How much do showers cost to buy and to fit?

The cost of buying and fitting a shower in the UK can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the type of shower, its features and size, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the property.

Cost of buying a shower:

• Electric showers typically start from around £50 to £200.
• Mixer showers can cost anywhere from £100 to £500 or more, depending on the brand, design, and features.
• Power showers can cost anywhere from £200 to £800 or more, depending on the brand, design, and features.

Cost of fitting a shower:

• The cost of fitting a shower can range from £100 to £500 or more, depending on the complexity of the installation and the location of the property.
• The cost will generally be higher if you need to move existing plumbing, install a new water supply, or make other significant alterations to the bathroom.
• If you are having a new shower installed as part of a complete bathroom renovation, you can expect to pay a higher overall cost.

Find out now – can a plumber fit a boiler if he is fitting a shower?

When is an electric shower a better option?

There are several reasons why people choose an electric shower:

Fast hot and cold water

Electric showers provide fast hot water by heating water as it flows through the unit, rather than relying on a stored supply of hot water from a cylinder or boiler. The shower unit is connected directly to the cold water supply, and an electric element heats the water to the desired temperature as it flows through the unit.

Easy installation

Electric showers can be installed quickly and easily, without the need for a hot water tank or pump. This makes them a great choice for homes with limited space or those that want to upgrade their showering experience without a major renovation.

Cost-effective

Electric showers are more energy-efficient than traditional mixer showers, as they only heat the water that is needed. This means that they can help to lower energy bills, especially when compared to traditional boilers.

Versatile

Electric showers are available in a variety of styles, sizes, and finishes, which makes them a great choice for a wide range of bathroom styles and sizes.

So, what is the best type of shower for a combi boiler?

The best type of shower for a combi boiler is a mixer shower. These showers work directly from the mains water supply, so they don’t rely on a separate hot water cylinder, making them ideal for use with combi boilers.

If you think you are looking for new boilers to go with your current shower, then get a quote now.