KBB & Washrooms

SHOWERHEADS AND HOSES: ESSENTIALS FOR SAFER ELECTRIC SHOWERING

Spray heads and hoses are integral to the safety of electric showers, explains Martyn Brown, Contracts and Technical Manager at Triton Showers. Here, he discusses why these elements should not be swapped for aftermarket options without due diligence.

Although sometimes overlooked, shower accessories are a key element in any shower set up, as not only do they form an important part of an interior scheme but they are also critical to safety and performance.

This is especially pertinent for electric units, which can cut out and cause unsafe showering when showerheads and hoses are damaged, worn or blocked.

The dangers of disrupted flow

Many of the risks stem from the movement of water through the shower being interrupted. An electric shower is a vented appliance and consistent flow through the head is critical. If water spends too long in the heating element, its temperature can rise rapidly and become dangerously hot by the time it reaches the person showering. For vulnerable users, like the young, elderly or disabled, this outcome can be particularly hazardous as they are more susceptible to scalding.

One reason for flow disruption is original showerheads being swapped for novelty alternatives. Examples include LED-emitting or mineral stone bead showerheads. There are also options that feature a button to stop water flow, which is perilous when paired with an electric shower.

Be aware that incompatible and poorquality products may not have been tested to appropriate standards, meaning they can prevent water from continually flowing from the unit. These risks also apply to hoses when twisted or kinked during use – the shower could even stop completely due to triggering the thermal cut-out function or pressure relief valve.

Think before changing components

When looking after showers and their accessories, best practice is to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and confirm that products are fit for purpose before replacing.

For hoses, it’s crucial that a robust product is selected. Look for ‘anti-kink’ options to avoid blocking the flow when twisted and turned. For example, Triton’s hoses feature anti-twist cones and double interlocked-stainless steel and have been tested to withstand up to 141kg of weight before breaking.

Meanwhile, Triton’s showerheads are designed to consistently maintain a steady flow, as well as being quick and easy to fit. These options are compatible with most electric units in the UK, along with suitable mixer and digital units too.

Maintain to stay safe

A vital piece of advice is that shower accessories should be regularly cleaned to ensure the product operates as intended. A simple fix is to remove the head, insert into a sealable plastic bag or container and fully immerse in white vinegar for two hours. A quick brush or wipe of the nozzles will then remove any remaining limescale and deposits, before rinsing with water – this process can be followed to clean hoses as well.

Final thoughts

In public sector-managed buildings, especially in housing, healthcare and education where vulnerable users could be using the facilities, safety should be a top priority. Here, using good-quality spares and accessories for electric showers and following manufacturers’ guidelines is critical. This will not only prevent units from being damaged unwittingly and warranties becoming void, but most importantly, will ensure people are not unnecessarily put in harm’s way.  www.tritonshowers.co.uk