Shower Pumps

Find out more about Shower Pumps

Shower pumps are designed to boost water pressure to showers, providing a more powerful and consistent flow. These pumps are particularly useful in homes where water pressure is low, ensuring a satisfying shower experience. Available in various types, including single and twin impeller models, they cater to different plumbing systems and pressure requirements. Single impeller pumps are suitable for boosting either hot or cold water, while twin impeller pumps boost both simultaneously, maintaining a balanced water supply.

When selecting a shower pump, consider the specific needs of your household. Factors such as the type of plumbing system (gravity-fed or mains-fed), the distance between the water tank and the shower, and the number of showers requiring a boost should influence your choice. Installation typically involves integrating the pump into the existing plumbing setup, ideally by a qualified plumber, to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.

Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the lifespan of a shower pump. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent overheating, and periodically cleaning the filter to remove debris. By addressing these maintenance aspects, you can keep your shower pump running efficiently, providing a reliable and enjoyable shower experience for years to come.

Shower Pumps FAQs

What is a shower pump and why do I need one?

A shower pump is a device designed to increase water pressure to your shower, transforming a weak, trickling flow into a powerful and invigorating spray. These pumps are particularly useful in homes where the existing water pressure is insufficient to provide a satisfying shower experience. This is often the case in properties with gravity-fed water systems, where the water tank is located in the attic, and the natural pressure from gravity alone isn't strong enough to deliver a robust shower.

The primary reason you might need a shower pump is to overcome the limitations of low water pressure. Low pressure can result in a frustratingly weak shower, making it difficult to rinse off soap and shampoo effectively. A shower pump addresses this issue by actively boosting the water pressure, ensuring a consistent and forceful flow. This not only enhances the shower experience but also improves the overall functionality of your bathroom.

In addition to improving water pressure, shower pumps can also help to balance the hot and cold water supply. This is particularly important in households where multiple people may be using water simultaneously, as fluctuations in pressure can lead to sudden temperature changes in the shower. By maintaining a consistent water pressure, a shower pump helps to prevent these temperature fluctuations, ensuring a more comfortable and predictable shower experience. Thus, installing a shower pump can significantly enhance your daily routine, providing a reliable and enjoyable shower every time.

What type of shower pump do I need?

Choosing the right type of shower pump depends on several factors related to your plumbing system and specific needs. The two main types of shower pumps are single impeller and twin impeller models, each designed for different scenarios. Single impeller pumps are suitable for boosting either the hot or cold water supply, making them ideal if you only need to increase the pressure of one of these. For instance, if your cold water pressure is adequate but your hot water pressure is weak due to a long pipe run from the hot water tank, a single impeller pump on the hot water line would be the right choice.

Twin impeller pumps, on the other hand, boost both the hot and cold water supplies simultaneously. These are essential when both water supplies suffer from low pressure, ensuring a balanced and consistent flow of water at the desired temperature. Twin impeller pumps are particularly beneficial in homes with gravity-fed systems where both hot and cold water pressures are equally weak. By boosting both supplies, these pumps prevent pressure imbalances that can lead to temperature fluctuations during your shower.

Beyond the impeller type, consider whether your plumbing system is gravity-fed or mains-fed. Most shower pumps are designed for gravity-fed systems, where water is stored in a tank and fed to the shower via gravity. Using a standard shower pump with a mains-fed system can cause damage and is generally not recommended. For mains-fed systems, you'll need a specific type of pump designed to handle the higher pressure, often referred to as a "mains booster pump." Always consult with a plumbing professional to assess your system and determine the most appropriate pump to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential damage.

How do I install a shower pump?

Installing a shower pump involves several steps and requires a good understanding of plumbing. Due to the complexity and potential risks, it's generally recommended to hire a qualified plumber for the installation. However, if you're experienced with plumbing and confident in your abilities, here's a detailed guide:

Preparation and Safety:

• Turn off water and electricity: Before starting any work, turn off the water supply to your bathroom and isolate the electrical circuit to prevent shocks.
• Gather tools and materials: You'll need the shower pump, flexible hoses, isolation valves, pipe cutters, spanners, screwdrivers, and possibly some extra pipe and fittings.
• Read the instructions: Carefully review the manufacturer's instructions for your specific shower pump model, as installation procedures can vary.

Locate a Suitable Position:

• Access and ventilation: Choose a location near the hot and cold water pipes leading to the shower. Ensure the pump has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Proximity to the shower: The pump should be as close to the shower as possible to minimise pressure loss in the pipes.
• Level surface: Mount the pump on a solid, level surface to reduce vibration and noise.

Plumbing Connections:

• Install isolation valves: Fit isolation valves on both the hot and cold water pipes before the pump. This allows you to isolate the pump for maintenance or repairs without shutting off the entire water supply.
• Connect flexible hoses: Attach flexible hoses to the pump's inlet and outlet ports. Connect the other ends of the hoses to the isolation valves on the hot and cold water pipes. Ensure the hoses are properly tightened to prevent leaks.
• Direction of flow: Pay attention to the direction of flow indicated on the pump and hoses. The hot and cold water supplies must be connected to the correct inlets.

Electrical Connections:

• Wiring: Connect the pump's electrical wiring according to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, this involves connecting the pump to a fused spur or a dedicated circuit breaker.
• Grounding: Ensure the pump is properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards.

Testing and Adjustments:

• Turn on the water: Slowly turn on the isolation valves to allow water to flow into the pump. Check for leaks at all connections and tighten as necessary.
• Turn on the electricity: Switch on the electrical supply to the pump.
• Test the shower: Turn on the shower and check the water pressure. Adjust the pump's settings, if necessary, to achieve the desired pressure.
• Bleed air: Bleed any trapped air from the pump and pipes by running the shower for a few minutes.

Final Checks:

While this guide provides a general overview, each installation can vary. If you're unsure about any part of the process, consult a professional plumber to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.