Given the chilly conditions in Nairobi and other parts of the country, hot showers are very popular.
Shower heads, often known as quick water heaters, are the most popular method of bathwater heating in Kenya.
While shower heads offer a less expensive way to getting warm water, the danger of electrocution must be taken into consideration.
Four life-saving safety advice have been prepared by Wakenyaleo.co.ke to prevent electrocution from shower heads.
Professional installation
In order to save time and money, many homeowners and landlords install shower heads by themselves.
This is strongly prohibited since it could cause electrical problems if the shower heads are not installed correctly.
In addition to the risk of electrocution, a poorly fitted shower head can decrease the quality of your showering experience and use more energy.
Cabling
Be sure the proper cables are utilized, even if you have hired a professional to complete the task. To save money, some electricians choose cables of lower quality and lower cost.
Shower heads should ideally use high-quality 4.5mm diameter cables to prevent overheating, burning the insulation sheath, and exposing the current-carrying wire to the water, which can be fatal.
Avoid combining the earth and live wires when installing the cable because doing so raises the risk of electrocution.
Certified electrician Jacob Nyambu outlined the importance of proper cabling during the installation phase.
The quick shower must have a good earthing during installation, he said, or else it poses a risk to the user.
He cautions that if there is no ground line, your body will act as one and you will instantly become electrocuted if there is an electrical fault.
Nyambu added that in order to eliminate the possibility of water coming into contact with the electric current, the switch should always be located outside the bathroom.
He suggested that if the switch was to be installed inside, it should be mounted on the ceiling and accessible by drawing a cord that does not conduct electricity.
Height
Make sure the shower head is not lower than the tallest household member’s head when you install it.
To prevent short-circuiting, this is really essential.
Routine Check-up
Regular inspections are required, just like with any other electrical device, to ensure that the shower head is operating at its best.
The temperature/pressure relief valve, which is intended to prevent the water heater from bursting if the temperature or pressure exceeds the safe limit, can be tested to achieve this.
Replace the valve right away if water does not flow freely after opening the pressure release valve.
