Thinking of upgrading your bathroom or installing a new shower in Reading? You’re not alone—over 68% of UK homeowners prioritize bathroom renovations for comfort and home value (Which? Survey, 2024). But fitting a shower isn’t a DIY weekend project. From water pressure checks to drainage compliance, booking a plumber to fit a shower in Reading ensures the job is done safely, legally, and without costly leaks later. Let’s walk you through everything you need to know—so you can enjoy that perfect morning rinse with zero stress.
Why Should You Book a Plumber to Fit a Shower in Reading?
Installing a shower involves more than just mounting a head and connecting hoses. It requires knowledge of local water regulations, building codes, and plumbing standards. In Reading, homes range from historic Victorian terraces to modern developments—each with unique plumbing challenges.
According to the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS), improper shower installations can lead to backflow contamination, water waste, or even structural damage. A certified plumber not only prevents these risks but also ensures your system meets Part G of the UK Building Regulations, which governs sanitary installations.
“A professionally installed shower can reduce water waste by up to 30% and extend fixture lifespan by 5+ years,” says Marcus Bell, lead technician at the Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering.
What’s Included When You Book a Plumber for Shower Installation?
When you book a plumber to fit a shower in Reading, here’s what a reputable service typically covers:
- Pre-installation assessment
- Water pressure test (ideal: 1–3 bar for electric showers; 0.5+ bar for mixer types)
- Drainage slope check (minimum 18mm drop per meter)
- Compatibility with your boiler or hot water system
- Fixture selection guidance
- Electric vs. mixer vs. power showers
- Compatibility with existing pipework
- Installation & testing
- Secure mounting of rails, trays, and valves
- Leak testing under pressure
- Electrical safety checks (for electric showers)
- Certification & warranty
- Compliance certificate (required for home sales)
- 12-month workmanship warranty (standard among Gas Safe-registered pros)
Many plumbers in Reading also offer same-day or next-day appointments—critical if you’re dealing with a broken shower or moving into a new home.
Electric, Mixer, or Power Shower: Which One Do You Need?
Choosing the right shower type affects both performance and installation complexity. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Shower Type | Best For | Installation Complexity | Avg. Cost (Reading) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric | Homes without combi boilers | Moderate (electrical + plumbing) | £300–£600 |
| Mixer | High water pressure areas | Low–Moderate | £250–£500 |
| Power | Low-pressure homes with tanks | High (requires pump) | £500–£900 |
💡 Tip: If you live in central Reading (RG1–RG6), water pressure averages 2.4 bar—ideal for mixer showers. But always get a professional test first.
For deeper insights, see the UK’s official plumbing standards overview on Wikipedia.
How to Book the Right Plumber in Reading: 5 Key Tips
Not all plumbers are equal. Follow these steps to avoid scams or subpar work:
- Verify certifications
Look for Gas Safe registration (if gas-related) and WRAS approval. Electric shower installers must be Part P compliant. - Check local reviews
Focus on Google Reviews and Checkatrade ratings. A reliable plumber in Reading should have 4.7+ stars from 50+ clients. - Ask for itemized quotes
Avoid “fixed price” traps. A detailed quote should list labor, materials, and call-out fees separately. - Confirm insurance
Public liability insurance (min. £2M) protects you if something goes wrong. - Request a post-installation certificate
Legally required for showers involving new pipework or electrical work.
Most top-rated Reading plumbers (like those in Caversham or Tilehurst) offer free site visits—use this to compare options.
Step-by-Step: What Happens When a Plumber Fits Your Shower?
Here’s exactly what to expect during a standard installation (e.g., replacing an old electric shower with a new Mira model):
- Day of service (9:00 AM)
- Plumber arrives, confirms scope, and lays protective floor coverings.
- Isolation & removal (9:15–9:45 AM)
- Turns off water and electricity.
- Safely removes old unit, checks wall integrity.
- Mounting & plumbing (10:00 AM–12:00 PM)
- Installs new backplate at 2.1m height (standard).
- Connects 10mm copper feed pipes with compression fittings.
- Fits 50mm waste pipe with correct fall (18mm/m).
- Electrical work (12:00–12:30 PM)
- Runs 6mm twin & earth cable from 30A MCB.
- Tests earth continuity (<0.05 ohms).
- Testing & handover (12:30–1:00 PM)
- Runs water for 10 mins at 40°C.
- Checks for leaks, temperature stability, and flow rate (≥8 L/min).
- Provides warranty paperwork and usage tips.
Total time: 3–4 hours for a like-for-like swap. Complex installs (e.g., adding a pump) may take a full day.
FAQ Section
Q1: How much does it cost to book a plumber to fit a shower in Reading?
A: Prices range from £250 to £900, depending on shower type, location, and whether new pipework or electrics are needed. Most plumbers charge a £60–£90 call-out fee, included in the final quote.
Q2: Can I install a shower myself to save money?
A: While legally possible for simple swaps, electrical and drainage work must comply with Part P and Part G regulations. DIY mistakes can void home insurance. Over 40% of insurance claims for water damage stem from amateur plumbing (ABI, 2023).
Q3: How long does shower installation take?
A: Most installations take half a day. Full bathroom refits (including tiling and drainage rerouting) may take 2–5 days.
Q4: Do I need planning permission?
A: No—shower installation is permitted development under UK law, as long as it’s within your existing home footprint and meets building regs.
Q5: What if my water pressure is too low?
A: A plumber can install a shower pump (for gravity-fed systems) or recommend a low-pressure electric model. Never force a high-flow shower into a low-pressure system—it causes damage.
Q6: Are Reading plumbers available on weekends?
A: Yes! Most offer weekend and emergency slots, though rates may be 20–30% higher. Book early—Saturday slots fill fast.
Conclusion
Booking a professional to fit a shower in Reading isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, legality, and long-term savings. Whether you’re upgrading for comfort or fixing a leaky disaster, the right plumber delivers flawless results, certified compliance, and a shower that lasts for years.
Don’t risk DIY disasters or unreliable contractors. Share this guide with friends in Reading who are renovating—or tag someone who’s been showering with a bucket! 💧🚿
Got questions? Drop them in the comments or consult a WRAS-approved plumber today.
Leave a Reply