Electric Showers vs Mixer Showers: What’s the Difference?

If you're planning a bathroom upgrade or replacing an old shower, choosing the right type of shower is key to getting the best experience from your setup. Two of the most popular types are electric showers and mixer showers, but what’s the difference, and which one is right for your home?

Here’s our quick and simple guide to help you decide between electric and mixer showers.

What is an Electric Shower?

An electric shower heats water on demand using an internal heating element, much like a kettle. It’s connected only to your cold water supply, so it doesn’t rely on your home’s hot water system.

Key Features of an Electric Shower:

• Instant hot water: heats up as you use it.
• Independent from your boiler: works even if your boiler is off.
• Great for busy households: multiple people can shower without waiting for the hot water tank to refill.
• Energy-efficient: only heats the water you use.

Who Are Electric Showers Best For?

• Homes with low hot water availability.
• En-suites or additional bathrooms.
• Properties with a combi boiler or no hot water cylinder.

What is a Mixer Shower?

A mixer shower blends your home’s hot and cold water supplies to deliver water at your chosen temperature. It doesn’t heat the water itself: instead, it relies on your boiler or hot water tank to supply pre-heated water.

Key Features Of A Mixer Shower:

• Stronger water flow: especially when paired with high water pressure or a shower pump.
• Modern designs: available in sleek concealed or traditional exposed styles.
• Thermostatic options available: for consistent temperature control and added safety.

Who Are Mixer Showers Best For?:

• Homes with a reliable hot water system.
• Families who enjoy a powerful showering experience.
• Bathrooms where design and functionality matter.

Electric vs Mixer Showers: A Side-by-Side Comparison

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re after simplicity, reliability and low running costs, an electric shower is a great choice, especially for en-suites or where hot water is limited.

If you prefer a more powerful, spa-like experience and your home has a good hot water system, a mixer shower could be the better fit, particularly when combined with thermostatic controls for added safety.

At Gainsborough Showers, we offer both Electric Showers and Mixer Showers. Shop online, with free UK delivery.