Saving Money with Electric Showers: Tips and Tricks

We all love a good hot shower, but when energy prices rise, so can your bathroom bills. The good news? Electric showers are already one of the most energy-efficient options for heating water in UK homes, and with a few extra tips and tricks, you can make them even more cost-effective.

Here’s how to save money while still enjoying a great shower every day.

Why Electric Showers Are a Smart Choice

Electric showers only heat the water you use on demand, directly from the cold mains supply. Unlike traditional showers that rely on your boiler, there's no need to heat up a whole tank or wait for hot water to become available.

That means:

• Less wasted energy
• No reliance on central heating
• Hot water 365 days a year, even if your boiler is off

To really make the most of your electric shower, let’s dive into some money-saving tips.

1. Choose the Right kW Rating for Your Needs

The kilowatt (kW) rating affects how powerful your electric shower is, and how much energy it uses.

• Lower kW (e.g. 8.5kW) = less electricity used per minute, but may deliver a slower flow or struggle in winter
• Higher kW (e.g. 10.5kW) = better performance, but higher running costs

A 9.5kW shower strikes a great balance for many UK homes. Choosing the most suitable power level can reduce both water and electricity use over time.  We offer 8.5kw, 9.5kw and 10.5kw electric showers, allowing you to select the perfect one for your needs.

2. Take Shorter Showers

Simple, but effective. Cutting your shower time by just a few minutes can lead to real savings, especially in a busy household.

• A 10-minute shower might use around 5–8 kWh of energy, depending on the unit.
• Reducing that to 5–6 minutes can shave up to 50% off the cost per use.
• Set a timer using a waterproof shower radio, or try a fun challenge with the family to keep shower times down.

3. Fit a Water-Saving Shower Head

A low-flow shower head limits the amount of water used without sacrificing the shower experience. Many are compatible with electric showers and help reduce both water and energy consumption.

This means:

• Less water heated = lower electricity use
• Reduced pressure = less strain on the shower unit

We have a range of shower heads that are suitable for our electric showers.

4. Clean and Maintain Your Shower Regularly

A clogged shower head can reduce water flow, meaning the unit has to work harder to deliver a satisfying shower, using more energy in the process.

• Descale your shower head monthly (especially in hard water areas)
• Check for kinks in the hose
• Replace worn or damaged parts promptly

Regular maintenance helps your shower run efficiently and can extend its lifespan, saving you money on repairs or replacements.   Don’t forget to register your Gainsborough Showers guarantee when you buy a shower from us, to help keep it refreshed for longer.

5. Avoid the Max Temperature Setting

Running your shower on the highest temperature setting every day will use more electricity, especially in colder months when the water coming in is colder - meaning more power is needed to heat the water. Try a comfortable mid-range setting where the water is warm but not overly hot. 

6. Only Run the Shower When You Need It

It may sound obvious, but avoid turning the shower on and walking away to "let it warm up." Electric showers heat water instantly, there’s no need to wait! This small habit can waste litres of water and cost you more over time.

7. Upgrade to a More Efficient Model

If your current shower is more than 5 years old, it may not be as efficient as newer models. Modern electric showers often include features like:

• Improved heating elements
• Better flow control
• Energy-saving modes

Upgrading to a new model can reduce your energy use and improve your daily shower experience. Browse our latest electric showers to see the difference for yourself.

Electric showers are already a smart, energy-saving choice, but with a few simple adjustments, you can make them even more efficient and cost-effective. Whether you’re cutting down shower time, switching to a water-saving head, or just keeping your shower clean and well maintained, these small changes can add up to big savings over time. And when it’s time to upgrade, Gainsborough Showers is here to help: with affordable, high-performance models and expert advice you can trust.

Need help choosing the right electric shower for your home? Get in touch with our friendly UK-based team today.