Articles /
December 9, 2024
Updated December 2024
Installing a mobility bathroom is a major renovation with numerous shower options to consider. The latest technology is making this a lot simpler due to its convenience and advanced features, with more people asking, “What are digital showers?”.
As experts in mobility bathrooms, we’ll explain what you need to know about digital and smart showers — how they work, how they’re installed and how they can benefit you.
What Is a Digital Shower?
Digital showers are a smart upgrade to traditional showers. They give you precise control over water temperature and flow. They mix hot and cold water inside a special unit so it always comes out at the perfect temperature.
Rather than using a traditional tap or twisting valve, you can activate the water with the touch of a button and control the temperature with a digital panel or even a smartphone app.
Many models are extremely intuitive, with select control over multiple shower heads and adjustable water pressure. They ensure the desired temperature is ready before you activate the water release.
Here are the key features you will find in a digital shower, depending on the model:
- LED touchscreen displays: Most digital showers have a touchscreen display, making them easier to use for people with arthritis or hand mobility issues.
- Programming: A key advantage of digital showers is their remote programming, letting you set the exact temperature and water flow from the unit or an app.
- Motion sensors: Some digital showers use motion sensors to reduce water flow when you step away.
- Dual outlets: Many digital showers have two or more adjustable shower heads. This is useful for people who may need to sit down and those who prefer to stand.
How Do Digital Showers Work?
Digital showers work by sending signals from a control panel or app to a thermostatic mixing unit. This unit adjusts the water temperature and flow based on your preferences before it reaches the shower head.
These signals can be sent in various ways, including Bluetooth, wireless radio frequency, or even through a wired connection, depending on the model. Wireless options don’t require Wi-Fi, as they use direct communication between the control panel and the mixing unit.
This makes for a more flexible installation, as the control panel can be placed somewhere convenient, like on a wall or even outside the shower area. Wireless control panels will need occasional charging and be within a 10-metre radius of the shower.
Wired models, on the other hand, connect the control panel to the mixing unit with a physical cable, which can be a simpler option for some setups. Whether you choose a wired or wireless system, digital showers ensure precise control over temperature and flow.
Digital Shower Installation
Digital showers are quick and simple to install. In most cases, if you have already completed your mobility wetroom or bathroom and want to add a digital shower, wall tiles will not need to be removed during a digital shower installation.
Since digital showers combine hot and cold water inside a mixer unit, it’s important to choose a model compatible with your boiler. There are two types of systems, both offering the same modern features:
1. Combi Boilers (Mains Pressure Systems): Compatible with a high-pressure digital shower.
2. Gravity-Fed Water Systems: Compatible with a digital shower that includes a built-in water pressure pump.
Unlike a traditional or electric shower, the mixing unit can be hidden away and installed in the loft or wall cavities or behind a bath panel. This keeps it out of the shower space, making it much easier to fit.
If you’re unsure which model to choose, contact our friendly team at Age Care Bathrooms to arrange a free home consultation.
Advantages of a Digital Shower
Digital showers offer many benefits, making them a great choice for mobility-friendly bathrooms and modern homes. Here’s how they stand out:
1. Accessibility for Mobility Needs
- Simple to operate: Large and clear digital displays and controls make showers easy for those with limited mobility or grip strength.
- Safe and consistent temperatures: Advanced thermostatic control ensures no sudden hot or cold surprises, improving safety for users with reduced sensitivity or slower reactions.
- Easy reach controls: Wireless panels can be installed at a reachable height inside or outside the shower, offering greater convenience and independence.
2. Contemporary Design
- Minimalist aesthetics: Sleek panels and hidden thermostatic units create a clutter-free look, perfect for modern bathroom styles.
- Customisation options: Tailor your shower experience with personalised presets for water flow and temperature, all wrapped in an elegant design.
3. Eco-Friendly and Efficient
- Water conservation: Built-in eco modes and motion sensors minimise water waste without affecting performance.
- Energy-saving operation: Exact temperature settings avoid unnecessary energy use, cutting down on your bills.
- Smart water use: Alerts let you know when the shower is ready so you don’t run water needlessly.
Digital showers are a great blend of convenience, modern design, and eco-friendliness, with extra features to support accessibility and comfort for all users.
Digital Showers vs Smart Showers
There’s often some confusion in the differences between digital showers and smart showers. A digital shower and a smart shower both work in the same way, with a digital thermostat that regulates temperature and a control panel to regulate the water flow.
Smart showers are digital showers that can be connected to apps like Alexa or Google. Once synced to your chosen app, you can use voice controls. This allows you to use voice commands to activate water flow, adjust the temperature, set timers and more. If that’s a feature you would benefit from, we can help you choose a model that suits your needs.
Related: What Is the Difference between a Walk-in Shower and a Level-Access Shower?
Commonly Asked Questions About Digital Showers
Now we’ve covered what digital showers are, how they work and their advantages; here are some other questions we’re often asked and their answers.
Are digital showers powerful?
Yes, digital showers can deliver excellent water pressure. Many models include adjustable flow settings, allowing you to enjoy a strong, consistent stream. Some are compatible with high-pressure systems or come with built-in pumps for homes with lower water pressure.
Do digital showers take longer to heat up?
No, digital showers typically heat up as quickly as traditional showers. Some models even have a “warm-up” mode that ensures the water is ready at your desired temperature before use.
Can I use a digital shower in a low-pressure water system?
Yes, many digital showers are compatible with low-pressure systems. Some models include integrated pumps to boost water flow, making them suitable for almost any home.
Are digital showers suitable for families?
Absolutely! Digital showers are great for families because of their safety features, like thermostatic control to prevent sudden temperature changes and user-friendly controls.
Can a digital shower work without Wi-Fi?
Yes, most digital showers do not require Wi-Fi. They use Bluetooth, radio frequency, or a wired connection to communicate between the control panel and the mixing unit.
How long do digital showers last?
With proper care, digital showers can last for many years. Regular cleaning, avoiding hard water buildup, and following manufacturer guidelines will ensure they remain reliable over time.
Are digital showers noisy?
Digital showers are generally quiet, but models with built-in pumps may produce a bit more noise. All models keep convenience at the forefront, including minimising noise where possible.
Can I upgrade my current shower to a digital one?
Yes, in most cases, you can replace a traditional shower with a digital model. Get in touch to assess your plumbing and electrical setup for compatibility.
Helping You Move to A Digital Shower Set Up
Age Care Bathrooms is a leading mobility bathroom company. For over 30 years, we have been completing wet room and mobility bathroom installations with a wide range of shower options to suit individual needs and preferences.
If you would like to learn more about the most suitable showers for your wet room or mobility bathroom, please contact our UK team or request a free home survey.
If you need a walk-in-shower due to mobility concerns or a disability, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
