why is my electric shower not working? 2025 Guide
Introduction
There’s nothing worse than stepping into the shower, turning it on, and finding that it’s not working. Whether your electric shower won’t turn on, has low water pressure, or is stuck on cold, these are common issues that many homeowners face. If you’ve been wondering, "why is my electric shower not working?", this guide will help you find the answer.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover:
The most common reasons why your electric shower is not working
How to diagnose and fix the problem yourself
When to call in a professional electrician
Preventative maintenance tips to avoid future breakdowns
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly why your electric shower has stopped working, whether it’s a quick fix or a job for an expert.
Table of Contents
why is my electric shower not working: Key Takeaways
Most electric shower failures are caused by electrical issues, water pressure problems, or component failures.
Simple DIY checks (such as resetting the circuit breaker or cleaning the showerhead) can resolve many issues.
If your shower has no power, check your fuse box, isolator switch, and wiring.
If your water is cold or fluctuating, the heating element or thermal cut-out switch may be faulty.
If the problem persists or involves electrical components, it is best to call a professional.
How Do Electric Showers Work?
Electric showers provide hot water on demand by heating cold water as it flows through the unit. Unlike mixer showers, which rely on a home’s boiler, electric showers contain an internal heating element that quickly raises the water temperature.
The process works as follows:
Cold water enters the unit from the mains supply.
A heating element warms the water as it passes through the system.
The user controls the temperature by adjusting the flow rate. A slower flow allows the water to heat up more, while a faster flow results in cooler water.
Electric showers require both a stable water supply and a reliable electrical connection to function properly. If either of these components fails, the shower may stop working.
The Importance of Regular MaintenanceFor Electric Showers
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your electric shower in good working order. Many common shower failures, such as low water pressure, temperature fluctuations, and leaks, can be prevented with proper upkeep.
Why is maintenance important?
Prevents limescale buildup – Hard water can cause blockages in the showerhead, hose, and internal components, reducing water flow and heating efficiency.
Extends the lifespan of the unit – Regular checks and cleaning help prevent component failures, saving money on costly replacements.
Improves energy efficiency – A well-maintained shower heats water more effectively, reducing energy consumption.
Ensures consistent water temperature – Cleaning and inspecting the unit helps maintain stable water pressure and temperature regulation.
Reduces the risk of electrical faults – Checking the power supply, fuse, and wiring prevents sudden failures.
How often should you maintain your electric shower?
Descale the showerhead and hose every 1 to 2 months (especially in hard water areas).
Check the water pressure and inlet filters every 3 to 6 months.
Test the isolator switch and circuit breaker every 6 months to ensure the unit is receiving power.
Inspect for leaks or loose connections annually.
By following a simple maintenance routine, you can prevent breakdowns, improve performance, and extend the life of your electric shower.
Common Reasons Your Electric Shower Stopped Working (And How to Fix Them)
If you’re asking yourself, “why has my electric shower stopped working?”, the issue is likely caused by an electrical fault, water supply issue, or a failing internal component. Below, we break down the most common problems, their causes, and how to fix them.
No Power to the Shower
Possible Causes:
Tripped circuit breaker – A power surge or electrical fault may have tripped the shower’s dedicated breaker.
Blown fuse in the isolator switch – A faulty fuse can prevent power from reaching the unit.
Faulty pull cord switch or wall switch – If the indicator light isn’t turning on, the switch could be broken.
Loose or damaged wiring – Electrical connections inside the unit may have loosened or burned out.
How to Fix It:
✔ Check your fuse box – Look for a tripped breaker and reset it if needed. If it trips again, there’s an underlying electrical issue.
✔ Test the isolator switch – If there’s no power, the switch may need replacing.
✔ Inspect the pull cord switch – If the shower has no power and the indicator light isn’t working, a new switch may be required.
✔ Call an electrician – If wiring inside the unit is damaged or loose, a qualified professional should repair it.
No Water Coming Out
Possible Causes:
Blocked showerhead – Limescale buildup can restrict water flow.
Stuck solenoid valve – The valve controls water flow into the shower; if faulty, it won’t open.
Low mains water pressure – If pressure drops below the required level, the shower may shut off automatically.
How to Fix It:
✔ Clean the showerhead – Soak it in a vinegar and water solution to remove limescale.
✔ Check the solenoid valve – If no water flows even after cleaning the shower-head, the valve may need replacing.
✔ Test other taps in your home – If all taps have low pressure, the issue is with the water supply, not the shower. Contact your water provider if needed.
Water is Cold or Temperature Fluctuates
Possible Causes:
Burnt-out heating element – If the element fails, the shower won’t heat water.
Faulty thermal cut-out switch (TCO) – This safety feature shuts off power to the heating element if it overheats.
Low or fluctuating water pressure – If water isn’t flowing at the right rate, the shower may not heat properly.
How to Fix It:
✔ Reset the thermal cut-out switch – Some showers have a reset button inside the unit. Turn off the power before checking.
✔ Check for limescale buildup – Blockages in the system can cause overheating and trigger the safety cut-out.
✔ Call an electrician – If the heating element has failed, it will need replacing.
Low Water Pressure
Possible Causes:
Limescale buildup in the showerhead or hose – A common issue in hard water areas.
Blocked inlet filter – The filter inside the unit prevents debris from entering but can clog over time.
Pressure relief valve (PRV) activation – If the system detects excessive pressure, it releases water to prevent damage.
How to Fix It:
✔ Descale the showerhead and hose – Use a vinegar solution or descaling product.
✔ Check and clean the inlet filter – This requires opening the shower unit, so turn off the power first.
✔ Replace the pressure relief valve (if activated) – A blown PRV needs replacing to restore normal function.
Water Leaking from the Unit
Possible Causes:
Failed pressure relief device (PRD) – If the system detects excess pressure, it may release water.
Loose hose connections – Internal fittings may become loose over time.
Cracked internal components – High pressure or manufacturing defects can cause small leaks.
How to Fix It:
✔ Turn off the power and water supply – Never open the unit while it’s powered.
✔ Inspect for visible leaks – Tighten any loose fittings inside the shower.
✔ Replace the PRD if necessary – If water is leaking from the bottom of the unit, the pressure relief device may have blown.
Troubleshooting and Fixes For Each Issue
| Problem | Possible Causes | DIY Fixes | When to Call a Professional |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Power |
- Tripped circuit breaker - Blown fuse in isolator switch - Faulty pull cord switch - Loose or damaged wiring |
✔ Check the fuse box for a tripped breaker and reset if needed. ✔ Test the isolator switch – if faulty, it may need replacing. ✔ Inspect the pull cord switch – if the indicator light isn’t on, the switch may be broken. |
If the wiring inside the unit is damaged or burnt out. |
| No Water Flow |
- Blocked showerhead - Stuck solenoid valve - Low water pressure |
✔ Clean the showerhead – soak in vinegar to remove limescale. ✔ Check the solenoid valve – if faulty, it needs replacing. ✔ Test mains water pressure by running other taps. |
If the solenoid valve is faulty and needs replacing. |
| Cold Water / Temperature Fluctuates |
- Burnt-out heating element - Faulty thermal cut-out switch (TCO) - Low water pressure affecting heating |
✔ Reset the thermal cut-out switch – some units have a reset button inside. ✔ Descale the showerhead to remove blockages. ✔ Check water pressure to ensure adequate flow. |
If the heating element needs replacing. |
| Low Water Pressure |
- Limescale buildup in showerhead or hose - Blocked inlet filter - Pressure relief valve (PRV) activation |
✔ Descale the showerhead and hose using a vinegar solution. ✔ Clean the inlet filter – turn off the power before checking inside the unit. ✔ Replace the PRV if it has been activated. |
If the water pressure issue is related to the mains supply. |
| Water Leaking from the Unit |
- Failed pressure relief device (PRD) - Loose hose connections - Cracked internal components |
✔ Turn off power and water supply before inspecting. ✔ Tighten loose connections inside the shower. ✔ Replace the PRD if water is leaking from the bottom of the unit. |
If internal components are cracked or leaking persistently. |
When to call a professional
While some electric shower issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, others require the expertise of a qualified electrician or plumber. If you're wondering, "why is my electric shower not working?", it may be time to seek professional help.
The shower is not receiving power despite checking the fuse box and switches.
The heating element needs replacing, as this involves working with electrical components.
There is a major water leak inside the unit that could damage electrical parts.
The solenoid valve or PRD has failed, requiring internal repairs.
A professional electrician will ensure the problem is fixed safely and in compliance with electrical regulations.
Summary
An electric shower can stop working for a variety of reasons, including electrical faults, low water pressure, limescale buildup, or internal component failures. Understanding the potential causes and troubleshooting the issue can help determine whether it's a simple fix or requires professional repair.
Key takeaways from this guide:
If your shower has no power, check the fuse box, isolator switch, and pull cord.
If there’s no water flow, clean the showerhead and check the solenoid valve.
If the water is cold or fluctuating, reset the thermal cut-out switch or inspect the heating element.
If the pressure is low, descale the showerhead, hose, and inlet filter.
Leaks from the unit could indicate a failed pressure relief device (PRD).
While basic troubleshooting can resolve many problems, electrical repairs or internal component replacements should always be handled by a qualified electrician. If your shower continues to malfunction, it’s best to seek professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If your electric shower randomly stopped working, it could be due to:
Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse – Check your consumer unit and reset the breaker if necessary.
Low water pressure – If water pressure drops below the required level, the shower may shut off.
Thermal cut-out switch activation – The unit may have overheated, triggering a safety shutdown.
Blocked showerhead or inlet filter – Limescale buildup can restrict water flow.
How to fix it:
✔ Check your fuse box and reset any tripped breakers.
✔ Test your water pressure to ensure it meets the shower’s minimum requirements.
✔ Clean the showerhead and filter to remove blockages.
✔ Let the shower cool down and reset the thermal cut-out switch if necessary.If the problem persists, a faulty heating element or solenoid valve may be to blame, requiring professional repair.
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Most electric showers have a built-in safety reset feature to protect against overheating or power surges.
To reset your shower:
Turn off the power at the isolator switch or consumer unit.
Wait for 5–10 minutes to allow the unit to cool down.
Press the reset button (if your model has one, it’s usually located inside the shower unit).
Turn the power back on and test the shower.
If the shower still doesn’t work, check for a tripped circuit breaker, blown fuse, or blocked water supply.
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If your electric shower is not pulling water through, it may be caused by:
A faulty solenoid valve – This valve controls water flow and may be stuck closed.
A blocked inlet filter – Dirt or limescale buildup can prevent water from entering the unit.
Low water pressure – If the pressure is too low, the shower may not function properly.
How to fix it:
✔ Check the solenoid valve – If faulty, it will need replacing.
✔ Clean the inlet filter – Remove any blockages that could be restricting water flow.
✔ Test your home's water supply – If taps are also affected, the issue is likely with the mains water pressure.If the solenoid valve has failed, it will need replacing by a professional.
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You can perform basic troubleshooting such as:
✔ Resetting the circuit breaker if the shower has lost power.
✔ Cleaning the showerhead and inlet filter to restore water flow.
✔ Testing the isolator switch to ensure power is reaching the unit.However, you should not attempt to repair electrical components inside the shower. Replacing a heating element, fixing internal wiring, or working on solenoid valves should only be done by a qualified electrician for safety and compliance with UK regulations.
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If your shower is not turning on, the most likely causes are:
No power supply – A tripped circuit breaker, faulty isolator switch, or blown fuse.
Damaged wiring – Loose connections can prevent power from reaching the unit.
Faulty pull cord switch – If the switch indicator light isn’t turning on, it may need replacing.
Internal component failure – A defective solenoid valve or heating element can prevent operation.
How to fix it:
✔ Check the fuse box for a tripped breaker and reset if necessary.
✔ Test the isolator switch – If there’s no power, it may need replacing.
✔ Inspect the pull cord switch – If faulty, a new switch will be required.If power is reaching the unit but it still won’t turn on, an internal component failure may require professional repair.
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Yes, qualified electricians repair electric showers. Since electric showers involve both electrical wiring and water supply components, certain repairs—such as fixing heating elements, solenoid valves, or internal wiring—should only be handled by a certified electrician.
When to call an electrician:
✔ If the shower has no power despite checking fuses and switches.
✔ If the heating element needs replacing, as this involves working with electrical components.
✔ If water is leaking inside the unit, which could damage electrical parts.
✔ If the solenoid valve has failed, preventing water from flowing.For safety and compliance with UK electrical regulations, it’s best to hire a qualified electrician for any major electric shower repairs.
Final Thoughts
A malfunctioning electric shower can be frustrating, but most issues can be diagnosed with simple troubleshooting steps. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the shower-head, checking the water pressure, and inspecting electrical connections, can help prevent breakdowns. However, if you're still wondering why your electric shower randomly stopped working, the cause may be more complex than a simple fix.
If you’ve followed this guide and still have problems, it may be time to call a professional electrician. Don’t risk working on electrical components without proper expertise—safety should always come first.
Need expert help? Contact a qualified electrician today and get your electric shower working again.