How much does shower installation cost in 2025?

Is your shower on the blink and in need of a replacement? Or are you installing a new shower as part of an exciting house renovation project? Whatever the case, you’ll want to know the latest shower installation costs. That’s where we can help.

Here, we run through all the costs for installing electric, power, and digital showers and replacing key components such as the pump, tray, and enclosure. We also share tips on saving money and finding a reliable plumber or electrician using our free directory below.

How much does it cost to install a shower in the UK?

These costs are a good place to start when budgeting for your new shower unit. But exactly how much your shower replacement costs depends on the type and brand you choose.

For instance, the cost of a Triton shower installation could differ greatly from that of a Mira shower. Labour costs are also an important consideration. Let’s look at that first.

Shower installation labour costs

Many homeowners source the shower unit themselves and then pay for a qualified plumber to fit it. Therefore, having a rough idea of how much installation labour will cost you is handy.

On average, plumber hourly rates are around £50, and they’ll take upwards of three hours to install a straightforward shower. To find out more, check out our guide to plumber costs in the UK.

If you add this to the shower unit cost, you’re looking at a total cost of between £300 - £1,500 for the supply and installation of a new shower by a professional installer.

However, it’s important to know this is an average cost for a standard shower. Choose one of the latest digital or power shower models, and the prices start creeping up. That’s up next.

Costs of installing different types of showers

The best shower for you and your home depends on several factors, including the type and size of the boiler you have. Water pressure considerations are also important. Different shower types will help address different issues of water pressure and temperature control.

A professional plumber can help you select a suitable shower based on your property’s water pressure, boiler type, and requirements.

But in the meantime, here’s an overview of the different types and costs:

Electric shower installation costs

From £200 plus labour
Electric showers are one of the most commonly used showers in UK homes. They work by being connected to your cold water supply and using a heating element to heat the water, so they’re ideal if you want instant hot water.

When you buy an electric shower, check their kW rating – the higher, the better. On average, a standard electric shower installation will cost around £400 for supply and installation.

Key features:

• The average time to install an electric shower is roughly two to four hours. You’re looking at two hours for a like-for-like replacement. But if there’s rewiring and extra plumbing to be installed, it could take four hours
• Needs good water pressure (from either your mains supply or a shower pump)
• Doesn’t need hot water from your boiler
• Compact and easy to install
• Well suited to homes with combi boilers

Mixer shower installation costs

From £200 plus labour
As the name suggests, a mixer shower mixes water from your home’s hot and cold water supplies to achieve the right temperature. With this type of shower, the unit doesn’t heat any of the water itself, so it depends on your boiler or heat tank for hot water.

You can also get mixed shower units that you can conceal within the wall so they’re hidden away – although doing this will increase the cost of installing your new shower.

Key features:

• The average time to install a mixer shower is around three to six hours. If plumbing for the hot and cold water supply is already in place, it could take three hours. However, it will take a plumber longer to install if new pipework needs to be fitted
• Requires both a hot and cold water supply
• Stronger water pressure than electric showers
• Concealed styles are available
• Best suited to homes with good water pressure and a reliable supply of hot water

Power shower installation costs

From £350 plus labour

If you’re looking for a powerful, high-pressure shower, then a power shower is what you want. They are often confused with electric shower units because they look similar, but a power shower uses an internal pump to significantly increase water pressure.

The costs for a power shower installation will be higher than both an electric and mixer shower.

Key features:

• The average time to install a mixer shower is around three to six hours. Similarly to mixer showers, it all depends on whether the hot and cold water supply is already in place
• The best type of shower to provide strong water pressure
• They tend to use more water than other shower types (between 8-12 litres a minute)
• Needs a hot and cold water supply
• Ideal for homes with weak water pressure

Thermostatic shower installation costs

From £200 plus labour

Thermostatic showers use a system of internal valves combined with a sensor that detects changes in water temperature. The shower unit regulates the hot and cold water before it leaves the shower head, preventing scalding or sudden changes in temperature.

Like with any shower type, the cost to install a new shower unit will vary depending on the make and model.

Key features:

• The average time to install a thermostatic shower is approximately three to five hours. However, if you’re installing a like-for-like replacement, it could less than three hours
• A safer alternative for temperature control
• Needs to connect to your home’s hot and cold water supplies
• Well suited for homes with young children or the elderly
• Requires a high-pressure water supply

Digital shower installation costs

From £400 plus labour

For tech lovers out there, digital showers combine the workings of a mixed shower with the precision of a digital control that allows you to set a precise temperature at the touch of a button.

Some digital showers are also compatible with other smart devices in your home, but connecting them up can add to the overall shower fitting cost.

Key features:

• The average time to install a digital shower is around four to eight hours. Surface-mounted units are generally quicker to install. It will take longer to install a concealed unit
• Connects to your home’s hot and cold water supplies
• Options are available for all types of water systems or boilers
• Some are compatible with other smart home devices
• Well-suited for homeowners who want to add tech to their bathroom

Still on the fence about what type of shower is right for you and your budget? Our shower buying guide helps you weigh up the pros and cons of each style.

Factors affecting shower installation costs

As you’ll see from the above costs, the type of shower and model you go for will impact the cost. But there are other factors to think about, too. They include:

• Additional pipework – If you’re replacing a standard electric shower with a mixer shower or thermostatic design, there will be additional pipework to install the cold and hot water supply
• Labour time – Concealed digital shower units may look smart, but it takes longer for a professional to install. That’s because they have to create an enclosure behind the shower wall to hide the digital unit
• Replacement vs. full renovation – If you’re ripping everything out and starting from scratch, the costs will be substantially more than a simple shower replacement
• Quality of finish – The quality and type of materials you choose can significantly increase costs. For instance, shower panels will be a lot cheaper than tiling. There’s more about that next

Additional shower installation costs

Planning to replace an entire shower and start afresh (including the cubicle, screen, shower tray, tiling, etc)? Then you’ll be looking at additional costs.

The average cost for a whole shower installation is around £2,000, but this will vary greatly depending on the quality and type of materials you choose. Let’s break down the costs:

Shower panel prices

Shower panels offer a cost-effective, hygienic, and low-maintenance alternative to tiles. The cost of shower panels will vary depending on their size, what they’re made from, and whether there are any custom design elements.

• Acrylic shower panels – Can cost as little as £55 per panel (1000mm)
• Custom-fit or larger panels (typically 1200mm) – You can pay anything up to £500 per panel
• New moisture-resistant plasterboard – Before applying the panels, your existing plasterboard might need replacing if it’s water-damaged. This costs around £200

Shower tiling prices

Tiling a shower enclosure can add flair and personality to your bathroom. But it can be pricey depending on your chosen style and the volume needed. To give you a general steer, the average cost to fully tile the walls and floors of a bathroom is £800 - £1,200 and will take three – four days.

You can learn more about tiling costs in our comprehensive cost guide. Or check out this shower ideas guide for bathroom renovation tips.

Shower accessories prices

Before forking out for a whole new shower, have you considered replacing parts instead? You will be amazed at the difference a new showerhead can make to your morning splash. Meanwhile, a new shower tray with fresh silicone sealant can spruce up a tired-looking shower.

Wondering what the cost to replace a shower tray and enclosure is? Let’s break down the costs:

• Shower tray – You’ll be surprised how much a shower tray can add to your shower renovation budget. On average, you’re looking at £400
• Shower enclosure – A new shower enclosure and door can make a big difference to the look of your bathroom. Prices are roughly £400

Shower component prices

Discovered that it’s just a component part that needs replacing in your shower rather than the whole unit? Good news! You’ll still need to pay for the component part and labour time to fit, but it will be far less than forking out for a new shower.

Here are some average costs to give you a steer:

• Shower pump – A new pump is one of the more costly shower components you can replace, but it will still be cheaper than buying a new shower. You’re looking at around £250 to supply and install a new pump
• Shower pipework – Additional pipework for a new mixer or thermostatic shower will cost in the region of  £150
• New electrics – If the wiring has gone on your electric shower, it could be a simple fix costing roughly £200

What’s the cheapest way to install a shower?

As you can see from above, costs start to mount up quickly. So, if you’re looking for the cheapest way to install a shower, these money-saving tips can help:

• Don’t be swayed by brands – Instead, focus on the shower specifications, such as the volume of water produced and power ratings. You often find two different showers offer the same power, but there’s a big price difference!
• Shop in the sales – There are some bargains to be had in the January and Black Friday sales. Just be careful not to buy an end-of-line shower model. If they are discontinued, it could be harder to get replacement parts in the future
• Choose simpler designs – You’ll pay a premium for more niche designs, such as matt black finishes, so opt for something more simple
• Pick a like-for-like replacement – The labour time will be a lot quicker if the wiring and plumbing marries up with your existing shower unit
• Shop second-hand – Check out secondhand sites for shower enclosures and trays – there are some bargains to be had
• Do it yourself – If you’re a confident DIY-er, tackle the demolition work or tile yourself. Just leave the plumbing and electrics to a qualified plumber or electrician. That’s up next

Find a qualified tradesperson to install your new shower

Ready to crack on with installing your new shower? Your first step is figuring out what tradesperson you need for the job.

A qualified plumber is best placed for shower installation. However, if you’re installing an electric shower, you will need the services of a Part P-certified plumber or qualified electrician.

They can safely complete the shower installation and will ensure that all water pipes and wiring are handled correctly. It’s also wise to check your tradesperson is registered with a relevant trade body, such as the NICEIC.

Finding a Part P-certified plumber or electrician on Checkatrade is simple. Just search for a specialist by following these three simple steps:

• Use a professional directory

Save time by using a professional directory (like Checkatrade!).

We’re so confident in the quality of the trades on Checkatrade that if you book through us, we guarantee their work up to £1,000. Guaranteed for 12 months – Eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply.

Contact or pay a trade through Checkatrade and you’re covered by our 12-month guarantee of up to £1,000*

* Eligibility and T&Cs apply

• Read online reviews

A review from a previous customer is one of the best ways to check a tradesperson’s professionalism.

At Checkatrade, we check all online reviews to ensure they’re from real people and that trades meet our high standards.

We check the reviews on Checkatrade are from real people, and that trades meet our high standards.

• Compare quotes

Get at least three quotes from qualified plumbers or electricians local to you. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the best tradesperson and price for the job.

Search your postcode to get started.

Shower installation costs: FAQs

How much does it cost to fit an electric shower in the UK?

On average, a standard electric shower installation will cost around £400 for supply and installation.

What is the cheapest type of shower to install?

If you’re after budget-friendly shower installations, an electric shower is the cheapest and quickest to replace. That’s provided all the plumbing and wiring are in place.

Can I install a new shower unit myself?

That depends on the type of shower you’re installing. If you’re having any type of shower that connects to water and electricity then you’ll need to hire a Part P-certified plumber. They can safely complete the shower installation and will ensure that all water pipes and wiring are handled correctly.

How long does it take to replace a shower tray and enclosure?

That all depends on the type of shower and enclosure you are installing. But, as a general rule of thumb, the average time to install an electric shower is roughly two to four hours. However, installing the latest digital shower could take up to eight hours if the unit is concealed.

Do I need a plumber and an electrician to install a shower?

A qualified plumber is best placed for shower installation. However, if you’re installing an electric shower, you will need the services of a Part P-certified plumber or qualified electrician.

How can I save money on shower installation?

As explored above, there are plenty of ways to save money on your shower installation. From ‘shopping smart’ in the sales to choosing a more straightforward design to avoid paying a premium for specialist finishes or features.