What Is an Electric Shower Pressure Relief Device (PRD)?
Published:
Categories:
If you own an electric shower, you may have come across the term Pressure Relief Device, or PRD for short. But what exactly is it, what does it do, and why is it important? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Pressure Relief Device?
A Pressure Relief Device (PRD) is a small but vital safety component found in most electric showers. Its job is to act as a failsafe if something goes wrong inside your shower unit, specifically if there's a blockage or pressure build-up within the heater tank.
Electric showers heat cold water instantly using a built-in heating element, but if the water can’t flow freely (perhaps due to a kinked shower hose, a clogged shower head, or a frozen pipe) pressure starts to build inside. Left unchecked, that pressure could cause serious damage.
This is where the PRD comes in. When pressure gets too high, the PRD activates and safely releases the pressure, allowing a small amount of water to escape from the shower unit. Think of it as a pressure valve, opening just enough to prevent anything more serious from happening.
What Happens If the PRD Activates?
If your PRD has activated, you’ll probably notice water leaking from the bottom of your electric shower unit. This is perfectly normal. It's how the PRD is designed to work. However, once it's been triggered, the PRD will need to be replaced before the shower can function properly again.
You might also find that the water flow stops entirely, or becomes erratic. In most cases, replacing the PRD (and addressing whatever caused the pressure build-up in the first place) will get things back to normal.
What Causes a PRD to Blow?
Common causes include:
- A blocked or scaled-up shower head
- A twisted or kinked shower hose
- Frozen pipes during winter
- Using the shower with a closed or partially blocked outlet
It’s a good idea to check your shower accessories regularly for wear and tear, and clean your shower head to remove any limescale, especially if you live in a hard water area.
Can I Replace a PRD Myself?
For those who are confident with basic DIY plumbing, replacing a PRD is often a straightforward task, though it does vary by model. That said, if you're unsure or not comfortable working with electric showers, we always recommend calling in a qualified professional. Your safety is the top priority.
At Gainsborough Showers, we supply genuine replacement PRDs and other spare parts for our electric showers. If you’re not sure what part you need, just get in touch, our friendly team is always happy to help.
While it might seem like a small component, the Pressure Relief Device plays a big role in keeping your electric shower safe and functioning properly. If you notice any unusual water leaks or changes in shower performance, it’s worth checking the PRD, or calling in an expert. For replacement shower parts,or guidance, browse our spare parts section or contact the Gainsborough Showers team today.