The Heatstore Aqua-Power Thermostatic Power Shower Unit is designed to boost the flow of stored domestic water, providing a comfortable and controlled showering experience. This unit is specifically engineered for gravity-fed systems and should under no circumstances be connected directly to the mains cold or hot water supply. It incorporates a motor for intermittent use, ensuring efficient operation while adhering to safety guidelines.
Function Description:
The Aqua-Power shower unit serves to increase the water pressure of gravity-fed hot and cold water supplies from a static cold water cistern and hot water cylinder. It features two control knobs: Knob "A" for Start/Stop operation and water flow rate adjustment, and Knob "B" for temperature control, which also includes a temperature limiter for safety. The unit is equipped with a solenoid to control water flow and a pump assembly to boost pressure. A commissioning link is provided for initial setup, allowing water to flow through the pump without the motor running, thus facilitating air removal. The shower includes a handset with multiple spray settings, allowing users to customize their showering experience.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Water Supply: Designed for gravity-fed stored domestic water only.
- Cold Water Cistern Capacity: Minimum 114 litres (25 gallons).
- Water Head: Minimum 8cm (3") and maximum 10m (33ft) between the bottom of the cold water cistern and the top of the shower unit. Pipework supplying the shower unit must not rise above the level of the bottom of the cold water cistern.
- Hot Water Temperature: Ideal thermostat setting for the hot water cylinder is 60°C. Maximum permissible inlet temperature is 65°C.
- Motor Use: Designed for intermittent use. Maximum continuous use should not exceed 15 minutes, followed by a 45-minute rest period for motor cooling.
- Electrical Installation: Must be in accordance with BS.7671 (IEE Wiring Regulations) and "Part P" of the "Building Regulations" (current edition). The appliance must be earthed and permanently connected to the fixed electrical wiring of the mains supply with its own dedicated supply. A means for disconnection in all poles must be incorporated, with a ceiling switch or local isolator recommended. A Residual Current Device (RCD) is recommended for additional safety.
- Cable: 1.0mm² Twin and Earth cable is recommended.
- Pipework: Ø15mm copper pipe should be used. Solder fittings should not be used within 300mm of plastic fittings. Pipe runs should be kept as short as possible with sweeping bends.
- Freezing Conditions: The appliance must NOT be fitted where it may be subjected to freezing conditions. Do not switch on if suspected of being frozen; wait until thawed.
Usage Features:
- Start/Stop and Flow Control (Knob "A"): Turn clockwise from the STOP position to start the shower and adjust the flow rate. Turn fully clockwise for maximum flow. Turn fully anti-clockwise to the "Stop" position to turn off.
- Temperature Control (Knob "B"): Turn clockwise for a cooler shower (lower number on the scale) and anti-clockwise for a warmer shower (higher number on the scale). Allow 10 seconds for temperature stabilization after adjustment.
- Temperature Limiter: A factory-set safety feature to limit the maximum working temperature. It can be adjusted during commissioning to suit site conditions.
- Temperature Override Button: Press the button on Knob "B" and continue turning anti-clockwise past the limiter position to achieve a higher temperature if needed. After overriding, Knob "B" MUST be returned to the normal temperature range by turning it clockwise past the limiter position (button depression not required).
- Handset Spray Settings: The handset spray plate can be turned in either direction to change the spray pattern.
- Safety Precaution: Always test the water temperature with your hand before stepping under the spray.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The shower unit and hose should be cleaned using a soft cloth. Abrasive or solvent-based cleaning fluids should be avoided, especially on plated finishes. The isolating switch should be turned off before cleaning to prevent accidental activation.
- Hose Inspection: Regularly inspect the shower hose for wear and damage. Replace if necessary, or every two years, with an approved part.
- Handset Cleaning: The shower handset should be cleaned regularly to maintain performance, as lime-scale can build up. Soak the handset in a proprietary lime-scale remover and rinse thoroughly before use.
- Filter Removal and Refitting: Inlet filters are incorporated to protect internal mechanisms. If performance deteriorates (flow reduction), the filters may need cleaning. To access, switch off electricity at the local isolator, remove the shower cover (as detailed in the installation guide), pull the lead from the PCB, remove two fixing screws and the filter cap from the inlet housing, and remove both filters. Wash filters thoroughly under running water, ensuring both "O"-Ring seals are fitted to the filter cap before reassembly. Re-priming the unit may be necessary after filter cleaning.
- Isolating Valves: Recommended to be fitted between the cold water storage cistern and the shower unit, and between the hot water cylinder and the shower unit. This allows for servicing or exchange without draining the cold water cistern or turning off the main cold water supply.
- Dripping After Use: It is normal for some water to drip from the shower handset for a few moments after use; this helps inhibit scale build-up.