01/01/2025
A power outage can leave you wondering which of your home utilities will still function. When it comes to showers, the answer depends on the type of system you have. Here, we break down the different types of showers and whether they will work without electricity.
Mixer Showers with Stored Water
If you have a mixer shower that uses stored water from a hot water cylinder, it may still work during a power outage—but only under certain conditions.
Hot Water Availability: There must still be hot water in your cylinder.
Gravity Fed Systems or Pressurised Mains Fed Systems: Your system relies on gravity or a pressurised mains-fed cylinder to provide water pressure rather than an electric pump.
In this scenario, you might enjoy a warm shower for as long as your stored hot water lasts.
Power Showers
Power showers combine water from both hot and cold supplies but rely on an electric pump to increase water pressure. Without electricity, the pump will not operate, meaning your power shower will not work during a power cut.
Mixer Showers with a Combi Boiler
If your mixer shower is fed by a combi boiler, it will not function during a power outage. This is because combi boilers require electricity to ignite and circulate hot water.
Electric Showers
Electric showers heat water instantly using electricity. As they depend entirely on power to function, they will not work during a power outage.
How to Be Prepared
To ensure you’re not caught out, here are a few tips:
Know Your Shower Type: Familiarise yourself with your shower system to understand its reliance on power.
Plan Ahead: If you have stored water, conserve it for essential use during outages.
Emergency Alternatives: Keep a supply of bottled water or install a backup water system if outages are frequent in your area.
Understanding your shower system ensures you’re prepared for any disruptions. While a power cut might limit your options, knowing what to expect can help you plan effectively.
For more helpful advice and tips, check out our other guides or get in touch with our team.
Other related guides:
What Flow Rate is Needed For a Good Shower?
What Shower Is Best With a Combi Boiler?
What Shower Temperature is Best?
How Does a Shower Pump Work?
What Shower Pump Do I Need?
How Much Does a Plumber Cost to Install a Shower in the UK?
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