Why My Electric Shower Keeps Cutting Out?

Understanding Electric Showers

If your electric shower keeps cutting out, it’s helpful to know a bit about how these systems work. Unlike traditional setups, electric showers heat water on the spot as it flows through the unit without the need for a boiler or tank.

Inside the shower, there’s a heating element and thermostat that team up to get the water to just the right temperature. It’s a super convenient way to get hot water fast.

But here’s the catch. Electric showers need the right water pressure to work properly. If the pressure is too low or too high, it can act up and lead to issues like Mira advance ATL thermostatic keeps cutting out unexpectedly. For a lasting fix, consider hiring a professional shower repair service.

Why Does My Electric Shower Keep Shutting Off?

Electric showers are super convenient and energy-efficient, but they need good water flow, steady electricity, and a bit of maintenance to work properly. If your shower keeps cutting out, don’t panic.

Limescale Build-Up

If you live in London, you’ve probably dealt with hard water before. Over time, all those minerals build up as limescale in your showerhead and internal parts. This can slow down your water flow and even cause overheating. If you ignore it for too long, your electric shower might start to cut off while using it or stop working altogether!

Fix

Here’s how you can tackle the problem head-on:

• Give Your Showerhead a Good Clean
  Take off the showerhead and let it soak in vinegar or a descaling solution for a few hours. Once it’s soaked, grab a brush and scrub away any stubborn limescale before popping it back on.
• Clean Out the System
  Run a descaler through the shower unit to flush out any hidden limescale inside. This helps keep the water flowing smoothly and extends the life of your shower.
• Stay Ahead of the Problem
  Make it a habit to descale your showerhead regularly to stop build-up before it gets bad. You could also consider installing a water softener. It’ll make dealing with hard water so much easier in the long run.

Triggered Thermal Cut-Outs

Modern electric showers come with a handy safety feature called a thermal cut-out switch. This kicks in if the shower starts to overheat, which can happen due to things like low water flow, power surges, or electrical faults. It automatically shuts the system down to prevent damage and keep you safe, only turning back on once the issue is fixed.

Fix

Here are a few steps to reset and bring power back to the electric shower keeps cutting out.

• Turn off the shower first
  Before you reset anything, make sure the shower is off and has had some time to cool down. Once it’s safe, find the reset switch (usually inside the shower unit) and flip it carefully.
• Check for loose wires
  If your shower keeps overheating, it might be due to loose wires or an electrical issue. It’s a good idea to call in a pro to check things out and fix any problems so your shower stays safe and reliable.

Issues with the Water Pressure

Electric showers work best when the water pressure stays between 1.0 and 1.5 bar. If the pressure’s too low, the water flow can get messed up, causing the heating element to shut off and leading to the shower cutting out after few minutes. Keeping the pressure steady ensures your shower runs smoothly and efficiently every time.

Fix

• Install a Shower Pump
  Want a better shower? Try installing a pump like the ESP80. It’s a game-changer for low water pressure, giving you a stronger, more consistent flow so every shower feels amazing.
• Clear Blockages
  If your water pressure suddenly drops, it could be clogged pipes, valves, or filters. Take a quick look and clear out any blockages to keep things flowing smoothly. No one wants a surprise interruption mid-shower!
• Monitor Water Supply
  Make sure your home’s water supply is steady and has enough pressure for your shower. If it’s inconsistent, it can mess with your shower experience. Fixing any issues will keep your flow reliable and stress-free.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues can really mess with your shower and even create safety risks. For example, overloaded circuits or faulty wiring can trip your circuit breaker, while too much power draw might blow a fuse. Damaged wiring can also cause loss of power and end up with you having to search things like “why my Triton shower keeps cutting out”.

Fix

• Fixing a Tripped Circuit Breaker
  Find your fuse box and look for the breaker that’s tripped. Flip it all the way to "off," then back to "on" to get your power running again. Quick and easy!
• Replacing a Blown Fuse
  Before swapping out a blown fuse, figure out what caused it. Once you’ve sorted that out, replace it with the right type to avoid more issues down the line.
• When to Call a Pro
  If your power keeps cutting out, you’ve got damaged wiring, or the problem seems too tricky to handle, it’s time to bring in a licensed electrician to fix things safely.

Component Failures

There are a few reasons why your electric shower keeps cutting out, and sometimes the issue is tied to the components inside it. Let’s break it down:

• Thermostat Troubles
  If your shower temperature is all over the place, it’s likely that the thermostat isn’t doing its job. A broken thermostat can’t regulate the water temperature properly, which makes for some pretty frustrating showers.
• Heating Element Issues
  Is your water running cold even though the shower is on? That’s a classic sign of a faulty heating element. This part heats the water, so if it’s damaged, it’ll need replacing.
• Flow Valve Problems
  Flow valves control how water enters the heating system. If they’re acting up, you might notice low pressure, uneven water temperature, or your shower cutting out after few minutes randomly.
• Micro Switch Faults
  The micro switch is what triggers your shower’s heating element. If it’s broken, the heating won’t activate, leaving you with cold water. A quick repair or replacement should fix this.

Fix

Start by reviewing the product manual to identify the faulty component that may be causing the issue before considering a full electric shower replacement. If you’re still unsure or can’t figure out the issue, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to handle the repairs safely.

User Errors and Neglect

Sometimes, the problem isn’t your shower. It’s how it’s being used or maintained.

• Wrong Settings
  Your shower might be stuck on “eco mode” or set to a lower heat setting without you even noticing. Take a minute to double-check the controls and make sure everything’s set how you want it for the best performance.
• Skipped Maintenance
  Grime and limescale can build up over time and mess with your shower’s performance. A good cleaning and regular checkups can stop annoying cut-outs and keep your shower working smoothly for longer.

Maintenance Tips for Reliable Shower Performance

Want your electric shower to last longer and work like a charm? A little regular maintenance goes a long way!

• Keep the Filter and Showerhead Clean
  Give your filter and showerhead some love by cleaning them regularly. This helps prevent annoying blockages from limescale or debris, so you’ll always have steady water flow and top-notch performance.
• Check Those Cables and Connections
  Take a quick look at the cables and connections from time to time. If you spot any wear, fraying, or damage, replace them ASAP to keep your shower running safely and reliably.
• Keep an Eye on Water Pressure
  Every six months, grab a gauge and check your water pressure. Proper pressure keeps your shower efficient, prevents strain, and helps it last even longer.

A little effort now means fewer headaches later!

When Should You Call a Professional?

Some issues are easy to fix, but there are times when you need to call in a pro. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Frequent Shut-Offs
  Does your system keep shutting off, maybe because of overheating or electrical faults? That’s a red flag for a bigger problem. It’s time to let a professional take a look.
• Burning Smells or Flickering Lights
  Notice a burning smell or lights flickering? That could mean serious wiring issues that might even lead to a fire risk. Don’t wait. Get it checked out right away.
• Can’t Pinpoint the Problem
  If you can’t figure out what’s wrong or the issue keeps coming back, it’s worth calling an expert. They can find the root cause, save you time, and make sure the fix actually lasts.

Get Your Shower Back On Track

At Serviceteam, we’re pros at electric shower repairs and installations all across London. Our friendly electricians and plumbers are available 24/7 to make sure your showers stay warm and uninterrupted.

Give us a call today for fast, reliable service you can count on!

If you’re thinking of replacing your electric shower, read our blog on ‘Considerations before replacing an electric shower’.

FAQs

Why has my electric shower suddenly stopped working?

It could just be a blown fuse, a faulty heating element, or low water pressure (a common issue in parts of London). Start by checking your fuse box.

Why does my shower keep stopping and starting?

That’s usually a sign of fluctuating water pressure or a thermostat issue. Make sure the water pressure is right for your shower, and if the problem persists, it’s worth calling in a professional.

Why does my electric shower keep tripping out?

If your shower keeps tripping, it might be an electrical fault, overheating, or even old wiring. Older London homes are known for outdated electrics, so it’s best to get an electrician to take a look.

Can low water pressure in London cause my shower to cut out?

Yes. Low water pressure is a common culprit when electric showers cut out, another classic London issue! Check your local water pressure levels, and if it’s a recurring problem, you might want to install a pump to keep the flow steady.

Is it worth replacing my electric shower?

Yes. It could be a smart move if yours is outdated, keeps acting up, or just isn’t efficient anymore. Newer models are designed to handle London’s water pressure quirks better and can save on energy, too.