Bar Showers

Bar showers have been around since the 1970s, but they've really caught on in the last couple of decades. Back in the day, showers were pretty basic - just a fixed head on the wall. Then someone thought, "Wouldn't it be brilliant if we could move this thing up and down?" And just like that, the bar shower was born.

These days, you'll spot bar showers in loads of modern bathrooms. People love them because they look smart, save space, and are a doddle to use. Plus, with more folks wanting their bathrooms to look like posh hotel rooms, bar showers fit right in with that sleek, modern vibe.

What Are Bar Showers?

At its core, a bar shower system is pretty straightforward. You've got a vertical bar fixed to your shower wall and a shower head that slides up and down this bar. However, there's more to it than that.

Most bar showers come with a few key parts:

• The bar itself: Usually made of metal, this is the backbone of the system.
• The sliding bracket: This holds the shower head and moves along the bar.
• The shower head: Can be detachable or fixed to the sliding bracket.
• The controls: These regulate water temperature and flow.
• Hoses: Flexible pipes that connect everything together.

Some fancier models might add extra bits like body jets or a fixed overhead shower to create a rainfall effect.

Now, how do bar showers stack up against your run-of-the-mill shower? The main difference is flexibility. With a traditional shower, you're stuck with the head at one height. Bar showers let you move things around to suit your needs.

Bar showers also tend to look more modern and take up less space. They're great for smaller bathrooms, where every inch counts. Plus, many bar showers come with thermostatic controls, which keep your water temperature steady even if someone flushes the toilet.

Another big plus for bar showers is how they handle water pressure. Because you can adjust the shower head, you can fine-tune the water flow to get it just right. Whether you want a gentle sprinkle or a full-on blast, a bar shower's got you covered.

Types of Bar Showers

Alright, let's chat about the different types of bar showers you might come across when you're shopping for one. There's quite a variety out there, so it's worth knowing what's what.

Exposed Bar Showers

These are your classic bar showers. They're called 'exposed' because you can see all the pipework and the bar itself. Think of them as the straight-talkers of the shower world - what you see is what you get. Exposed bar showers are simple to install, which is advantageous if you're not keen on ripping up your bathroom walls. They're often cheaper than other types, too. Plus, they've got a certain industrial chic about them that lots of people love.

The downside? Well, they're not the most subtle things in the world. If you're after a sleek, minimalist look, an exposed bar shower might not be your cup of tea.

Concealed Bar Showers

Now, if you want something a bit more discreet, concealed bar showers are the way to go. With these, all the pipework is hidden away behind the wall. You just see the shower controls, the bar, and the shower head poking out. Concealed bar showers look really smart and can make your bathroom feel bigger and less cluttered. They're perfect if you're going for that spa-like vibe in your bathroom.

The catch? They're trickier to install and usually cost more than exposed ones. And if something goes wrong, you may need to remove the tiles to fix it. But for many people, the sleek look is worth it.

Thermostatic Bar Showers

These are the clever clogs of the shower world. Thermostatic bar showers keep the water temperature steady, even if someone turns on a tap elsewhere in the house. How do they work? Well, they've got a special valve that reacts to changes in water pressure. If the cold water pressure drops (like when someone flushes the toilet), the valve reduces the hot water flow to match. No more surprise scaldings or freezing blasts!

Thermostatic showers are ideal for families, especially if you've got little ones. They're safer and more comfortable to use. The downside? They're usually pricier than standard mixer showers.

Digital Bar Showers

Digital bar showers are the new kids on the block, and they're pretty fancy. With a digital shower, you control everything through a digital panel. You can set the exact temperature you want, control the flow rate, and even programme in your favourite shower settings. Your shower can be turned on remotely from bed with some models.

If you love your technology, digital showers are brilliant. They're precise, easy to use, and look super modern. The catch? It's the most expensive option and requires an electrician and plumber to install.

Benefits of Installing a Bar Shower

Now you know the types, let's talk about why you might want to get a bar shower in the first place. There are loads of benefits, so let's break them down.

Improved water pressure and flow

One of the best things about bar showers is how they handle water pressure. Because you can adjust the height and angle of the shower head, you can fine-tune the water flow to get it just right. If you've got low water pressure, a bar shower can help. Many models are designed to boost the flow rate, giving you a more powerful shower even if your water pressure isn't great.

Temperature control and safety features

We've already touched on this with thermostatic showers, but it's worth mentioning again. Bar showers often come with better temperature controls than traditional showers. Many have anti-scald devices built in, which is great for safety. And because you can adjust the height of the shower head, it's easier to keep soap and water out of kids' eyes when they're showering.

Space-saving design

Bar showers are brilliant for smaller bathrooms. They take up less space than a fixed shower head and a separate handheld shower. And because they're so versatile, you can often do away with extra fittings, like a separate bath filler. If you're working in a tight space, a bar shower can help you make the most of it. They're particularly good for over-bath showers in compact bathrooms.

Aesthetic appeal and a modern look

Let's face it, bar showers look pretty cool. They've got a sleek, modern vibe that can really lift the look of your bathroom. Whether you go for an exposed industrial look or a sleek concealed design, a bar shower can be a real feature in your bathroom. They come in all sorts of finishes too - chrome, brushed nickel, matt black, you name it.

Versatility and customisation options

This is where bar showers really shine. They're just so versatile. Need to wash the dog? Lower the shower head. Want to rinse your hair without getting your face wet? Raise it up. Cleaning the shower? The adjustable head makes it a doddle. Many bar showers come with different spray patterns too. You can switch between a gentle rainfall, a powerful jet, or a massaging pulse. Some even have body jets for that spa-like experience.

Bar Showers vs. Other Shower Types

When you're picking out a new shower, you've got a fair few options to choose from. Let's see how bar showers stack up against some of the other popular types out there.

First up, let's talk about rainfall showers. These are those big, flat shower heads that hang directly overhead and give you that 'standing in the rain' feeling. They're lovely for a relaxing soak, but they're not always practical. Bar showers have the edge here because they're more versatile. You can adjust the height and angle of a bar shower, which you can't do with a fixed rainfall head. Plus, bar showers often come with different spray patterns, so you can have that rainfall effect when you want it but also a more focused spray when you need it. And let's be honest, sometimes you don't want to get your hair wet, which is a bit tricky with a rainfall shower!

Now, what about handheld showers? These are great for flexibility; you can direct the water exactly where you want it. Bar showers actually give you the best of both worlds. Most bar showers have a detachable head, so you get all the benefits of a handheld shower. But you've also got the option to lock the head in place on the bar, which is handy when you just want to stand under the water without holding anything. It's like having two showers in one.

Lastly, let's compare bar showers to traditional mixer showers. These are your basic showers with a fixed head and separate hot and cold taps. Bar showers win out here on pretty much every front. They're more adjustable, often have better temperature control, and look a lot more modern. The only real advantage of a traditional mixer is that it's usually cheaper and simpler to install. But for the extra bit of cost and effort, a bar shower gives you a whole lot more.

Choosing the Right Bar Shower for Your Bathroom

So you've decided a bar shower is the way to go. Brilliant choice! But how do you pick the right one? There's a fair bit to think about, so let's break it down.

First things first, you need to consider your bathroom size and layout. If you've got a small bathroom, you might want to go for a sleeker, more compact bar shower. For larger spaces, you could consider a more feature-packed model with body jets or a separate rainfall head. Think about where your shower will go, too. Is it going over a bath? In a separate cubicle? This will affect the type of bar shower that works best.

Next up is water pressure. This is really important. If you've got low water pressure, you'll need a bar shower that's designed to cope with that. Some models have pumps built in to boost the flow. On the other hand, if you've got high pressure, make sure you choose a shower that can handle it without spraying water everywhere!

Your existing plumbing setup is another key factor. If you're replacing an old shower, it's easiest to choose a new one that fits the same plumbing. Changing from an exposed to a concealed shower, for example, could mean a lot more work and expense. That said, if you're doing a full bathroom remodel, you've got more flexibility.

Of course, personal preference plays a big part too. Do you like a powerful jet or a gentle spray? Do you want lots of different functions or just a simple setup? Also, don't forget about style. Bar showers come in all sorts of finishes, from classic chrome to trendy matt black. Pick something that fits with your overall bathroom design.

When it comes to brands, there are some great options out there. Roca is known for its striking designs, impeccable quality, and good value for money. Vado is another good shout, especially if you're after something a bit more high-end. Their Atmosphere shower range is pretty swish, with air-injection technology for a softer, more luxurious spray. Ideal Standard is worth a look too. They've been in the game for ages, and their bar showers are reliable and well-designed. The Ceratherm 100 is a solid mid-range option.

Now, let's talk money. Bar showers can range from about £100 for a basic model to over £1000 for a top-of-the-range digital system. A decent thermostatic bar shower will probably set you back somewhere between £200 and £500. Remember, you often get what you pay for with showers. It might be worth spending a bit more for better quality and more features, especially since this is something you'll be using every day. But don't worry if you're on a tight budget; there are still plenty of good options at the lower end of the price range.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bar Showers

Let's tackle some of the questions that people often ask about bar showers. If you're thinking about getting one, chances are you've got a few of these questions yourself.

Are bar showers suitable for all bathrooms? In most cases, yes. Bar showers are pretty versatile and can fit in most bathrooms. That said, you'll need to make sure you've got enough wall space for the bar. If you've got a tiny shower cubicle or an awkwardly shaped bathroom, you might need to get creative with the placement. But generally speaking, if you've got space for a regular shower, you can probably fit a bar shower.

Can I install a bar shower in a bathtub? Absolutely! In fact, bar showers are brilliant for over-bath installations. They give you more flexibility than a fixed shower head, which is handy when you're trying to rinse shampoo out of your hair while sitting in the bath. Just make sure you choose a model that's suitable for over-bath use.

How long do bar showers typically last? A good quality bar shower should last you a good 10 to 15 years, maybe even longer if you look after it well. The lifespan can vary depending on the quality of the shower, how often you use it, and how hard your water is. Cheaper models might not last as long, while top-end showers could keep going for 20 years or more.

Are bar showers more expensive than traditional showers? They can be, but not always. Basic bar showers start at about the same price as traditional mixer showers. However, bar showers often come with more features, which can push the price up. If you're going for a fancy thermostatic or digital bar shower, then yes, it'll probably cost more than a basic traditional shower. But remember, you're getting a lot more for your money.

Can I upgrade my existing shower to a bar shower? In most cases, yes. If you've already got a shower installed, switching to a bar shower is usually pretty straightforward. You might need to do a bit of tiling work to cover any old holes, but the plumbing should be fairly simple. If you're going from an exposed shower to a concealed one, that's a bigger job and might require some wall work.

Do bar showers need more maintenance than regular showers? Not really. The maintenance for a bar shower is pretty similar to any other shower. You'll need to clean it regularly to prevent limescale build-up, and you might need to replace washers or seals every few years. The sliding mechanism on the bar might need a bit of attention now and then, but nothing major.

Can I install a bar shower myself? If you're handy with DIY and have some plumbing experience, you might be able to install a simple exposed bar shower yourself. But for concealed or digital models, it's best to get a professional in. Remember, if you're not confident, it's always better to call a plumber. A botched installation could lead to leaks or water damage.

Will a bar shower work with my combi boiler? Yes, bar showers work well with combi boilers. In fact, they're a great match because combi boilers provide hot water on demand, which is perfect for a shower. Just make sure you choose a bar shower that's compatible with your boiler's water pressure.

Can I use a bar shower if I have low water pressure? You can, but you'll need to choose the right model. Look for bar showers that are designed for low pressure systems. Some come with built-in pumps to boost the flow. Alternatively, you could consider installing a separate shower pump to increase your water pressure.

Are bar showers environmentally friendly? They can be! Many modern bar showers come with water-saving features like flow limiters or eco settings. Some even have smart technology that helps you monitor your water usage. Plus, because you can adjust the flow more easily with a bar shower, you might find you use less water overall.