Top 3 Reasons Why Electric showers Cut Out (And Fixes)

Annoying, right? We explain why your electric shower stops working and how to solve the issue for good!

When electric showers cut out, one of three things is usually responsible. The reasons include limescale, triggered thermal cut-outs, and problems with water pressure.

A shower that does not work can really mess up your schedule. Let’s find out what the problem is and how to avoid it in the future.

READ NEXT: This is why your shower has no cold water .

Why Does My Electric Shower Cut Out?

The electric shower is growing in popularity. They are easy to install, power-efficient, and heat water quickly. Another bonus that brings this shower more fans is the fact that the hot water never runs out, thanks to the fact that it heats water over an element and not a heating tank that can run empty. But enough of the perks. Let’s look at one of the most common problems.

When your electric shower cuts out, there is usually one of three things in the works. These gremlins are listed below.

1. There is a limescale build-up.
2. Triggered thermal cut-outs.
3. Problems with water pressure.

A good maintenance routine will also keep cut-outs to a minimum or prevent them completely. Get our guide that is packed with tips on how to clean an electric shower .

How Serious Is This Problem?

Alright, let’s soothe some ruffled feathers. When any electrical appliance cuts out, the first thought that naturally comes to mind is this. Did this thing just break? The good news is that this is not commonly the case with electric showers. There is no need to panic because the problem is normally easy to deal with. Before you know it, your shower will work again.

READ NEXT: Electric shower leaking from the unit? Here's why.

How Limescale Causes Cut-Outs

It all starts with hard water. This term refers to tap water that has a high amount of minerals. Hard water tends to leave chalky deposits (limescale) on or inside appliances that work with water. This eventually interferes with the way they work. If the problem is not addressed soon, it might even destroy the appliance. Things affected include irons, boilers, plumbing, washing machines, taps, and showers.

When does limescale cause cut-outs with electric showers? The main cause is when water stays in the heater for long. The limescale accumulates and clogs the showerhead. This, in turn, leads to cut-outs.

How Do I Fix This Problem?

To fix this problem, you need to get some descaling agent and thoroughly clean the showerhead to get rid of the limescale. You can also go for a long-term solution such as installing a device that removes minerals from the water and essentially turns your home’s water supply into “soft water.”

If this does not eliminate the problem, then you need to troubleshoot for other possible causes like low water pressure, and a triggered thermal cut-out.

Electric showers also have other issues. Learn more about why your electric shower runs hot and then cold and how to fix it.

Triggered Thermal Cut-Outs

The thermal cut-out is triggered whenever there is an electrical fault. This could be a loose wire somewhere or perhaps the house experienced a power surge. The thermal cut-out is more of a safety feature than a problem.

How Do I Fix A Thermal Cut-Out?

You can fix this problem by simply flipping the switch back on. This should solve the issue if the house had a power surge but if the shower keeps cutting out (and you have eliminated other possible causes), then there might be a loose wire. To fix this, you need to have a professional electrician look at the shower.

If your shower only gives you cold water, learn why your electric shower runs cold and how to fix the problem.

How Water Pressure Can Cause Cut-Outs

A drop in the pressure of water in the electric shower could result in cut-outs. It is a common occurrence especially if you are living on the top floors of a multi-storied building or if you are using a shared water source.

The recommended minimum pressure of water in an electric shower is 1.0 bar and 1.5 bar. Whenever the pressure drops below these minimums, the shower cuts out (because the heater is receiving less water than it should).

How Do I Fix This Problem?

Fixing this issue requires the installation of a shower pump. This will go a long way in improving the performance of the electric shower. The ESP80 is much recommended because it has been designed to handle the minimum 1.0 and 1.5 bar pressure for the electric shower.

This is how much it costs to instal an electric shower .

DIY Or An Expert?

When your electric shower cuts out, there is the DIY route or outsourcing the fixing to a professional. DIY is good if you have experience with plumbing or the shower’s user manual explains troubleshooting in sufficient detail. But if you do not have the time or experience, then calling an expert could also ensure that your electric shower is fixed the first time. They might also be able to diagnose the problem more accurately.

A Quick Summary On Why Electric Showers Cut Out

• Electric showers are popular due to their ability to provide hot water for the whole family.
• Cut-outs are often alarming but rarely points to a serious problem.
• Cut-outs can be fixed by anyone that has some experience in home maintenance.
• There are three common reasons for cut-outs in electric showers.
• These reasons include low water pressure, triggered thermal cut-outs, and the build-up of limescale.
• Low water pressure can be fixed with the right shower pump.
• Thermal cut-outs can be fixed by switching the shower on again or looking for a loose wire.
• Limescale can be fixed by cleaning the shower and installing a soft water device.
• You can also call a professional to quickly diagnose and fix your electric shower.

READ NEXT: Common thermostatic shower problems and fixes.