Shower cable is short

[Jupiter01]

I’ve replaced my electric shower and the cable is around 5cm too short. It won’t reach the shower terminals. Should I introduce another set of terminal connectors in the shower unit?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Taylortwocities]

Better not to introduce another joint in this wiring. Junctions in high-power applications can cause problems.

Is there a ceiling pull (or other) switch for the shower? Better to run a new length of cable from the switch.

 

[Jupiter01]

Thanks @Taylortwocities. I can'y easily re-route a new cable as I have tiled the shower enclosure. This is self inflicted as I've left a very small entrance for pipe and cables in the tiles. I think I should extend this up as the cable entry is easier to have higher up on the shower unit.

Q. Can I use an angle grinder with the tile disc for this purpose in your opinion?

 

[Taylortwocities]

A. Lord knows, I’m not qualified to provide building advice!

 

[Jupiter01]

I have one of those multi tools too. Will await some further advice before I embark on this.

 

[mikeey84]

If you have spare tiles you should be able to remove the ones already stuck. A multitool with a carbide attachment should be able to remove the grout, so you can carefully remove the tiles.

 

[Jupiter01]

Thanks @mikeey84. Can I cut it in situ do you think? The cut will be hidden once the shower unit is fitted on top.

 

[oldbutnotdead]

Grinder with diamond disc will be fine for enlarging your access hole, just be careful you don't go too deep.
Avoid extra joints in the power cable if possible

 

[fluorescence]

I don't see why you cannot simply extend the cables. As long as the connectors used are rated for the current, are of good quality & are terminated properly, all will be fine.

Edit: as pointed out below, the connections should be within the shower unit itself or housed in a suitable junction box in an accessible location

 

[oldbutnotdead]

Addendum to above- if your cable joint would be inside a 'dry' accessible part of the shower enclosure, proper terminal block etc then yes go ahead, low risk.
If the joint would be in the wall void then try v hard to avoid a joint, if no option then use maintenance free connectors (Wago?) and you must enclose the joint.

 

[Taylortwocities]

How big is the cable? Is this a new circuit?

 

[Jupiter01]

Update: I cut some of the tile (hidden behind shower unit) and was then able to pull the existing cable through. This avoided the need for any cable joins. Thanks again.