Welcome to our comprehensive guide on shower pumps, where we will delve into everything you need to know to select the perfect shower pump for your home. From understanding the purpose of a shower pump to exploring the various types available in the market, we will cover it all.
Whether you are looking to boost the water pressure in your shower or simply seeking an upgrade, this article will provide you with the essential knowledge to make an informed decision. Join us as we navigate through the world of shower pumps and equip you with the expertise to choose the right one for your needs.
What is a shower pump for?
A shower pump is used to increase water pressure in low water pressure situations, allowing you to enjoy a more powerful and satisfying shower experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you choose the right shower pump for your needs.
A shower pump is an essential component if you want to improve your showering experience. It ensures that you have enough water pressure to fully enjoy your shower, even if you live in an area with low water pressure.
With the right shower pump, you can say goodbye to weak and dribbling water flow, and hello to a revitalising shower that leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Do you need a shower pump?
If you’re experiencing low water pressure in your shower, you may be wondering if you need a shower pump. Here are four signs that indicate you may need a shower pump:
- Your hot water takes forever to reach your shower head, leaving you frustrated and longing for a relaxing and invigorating shower experience.
- The water from your shower head feels weak and lacks the power to rinse away shampoo and soap properly, making your showers less enjoyable.
- You have noticed a decrease in water pressure from your cold water tank, affecting the overall performance of your shower.
- Despite trying other solutions, such as cleaning your shower head or adjusting the water pressure valve, you still have low water pressure in your shower.
If any of these signs resonate with you, it might be time to consider investing in a shower pump to increase the water pressure in your shower.
What are the different types of shower pumps
Let’s explore the different types of shower pumps that are available.
You have positive head shower pumps, which are ideal for situations where the water tank is located below the shower.
On the other hand, there are negative (universal) head shower pumps, which can be used in any situation regardless of the tank location.
Additionally, you have the option of single impeller shower pumps and twin impeller shower pumps, each offering their own advantages.
Lastly, there are centrifugal shower pumps, which are known for their efficiency.
What is a positive head shower pump
A positive head shower pump is designed to push the feed of water into your shower, relying on gravity to feed the water from your cold water storage tank into the pump. This flow kickstarts the impellers, which then pump the water. A positive head pump is reliant on there being a sufficient head of pressure above the outlet for the pump to activate. For all other situations a negative (universal) pump is required.
What is a negative (universal) head shower pump
A negative head shower pump is a type of pump that pressurises the water system from the water tank to the mixer valve, ensuring automatic system activation when the shower is turned on. This type of pump is ideal when your showerhead is at the same level or higher than the cold water storage tank.
Negative head pumps are commonly used in loft conversions, residential flats, home renovations, or when the flow rate is less than 600ml per minute. They work well for both hot and cold water supplies, making them suitable for various shower types.
What is a single impeller shower pump
A single impeller shower pump is designed to boost one water supply, whether it be hot or cold water. These pumps are commonly recommended by plumbers when you’re experiencing pressure issues with only one type of water supply. They are much less commonly used than twin impeller pumps.
What is a twin impeller shower pump
A twin impeller shower pump is designed to boost both hot and cold water supplies at an equal flow. Unlike single impeller pumps, which can only boost either the hot or cold water supply, twin impeller pumps are capable of maintaining a balanced pressure for both. This makes them the most common type of pump found in homes today.
What is a centrifugal shower pump
A centrifugal pump is a type of shower pump that uses centrifugal force to increase water pressure within a system. Here are four key points to consider about centrifugal shower pumps:
- Efficient water pressure: Centrifugal pumps are designed to efficiently increase water pressure by using the spinning motion of the impeller to throw water outwards, creating higher pressure within the pump chamber.
- Suitable for most systems: Centrifugal pumps are versatile and can be used with a wide range of heating systems and shower types, making them a popular choice for many households.
- Quiet operation: Compared to other types of shower pumps, centrifugal pumps are known for their quieter operation, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing shower experience.
Centrifugal pumps tend to be the quieter of the two types available but they are also more susceptible to being damaged by air in the system so following the manufacturers instructions on installation is crucial. It is for this reason that regenerative pumps tend to be more popular.
What is a regenerative shower pump
Regenerative shower pumps have a water wheel impeller inside the end of the pump. As water enters the pump through the inlet, the impeller spins the water around inside the impeller casing, building pressure.
Between the inlet and the outlet of the pump, there’s a stripping block that directs the water out of the top of the pump. This type of pump is known for its efficient pressure-building capabilities.
Regenerative pumps are the more popular option out of the two as they tend to be more reliable and a better value option.
Six steps to determine what shower pump you need
To determine what shower pump you need, there are six important steps to consider.
First, you need to assess whether a shower pump is suitable for your plumbing system.
Next, identify the type of shower you have and determine whether you need a positive or negative pump.
Then, decide whether a single or twin impeller shower pump is required.
Finally, consider the size of your pipework.
These steps will help you choose the right shower pump for your needs.
1 – Is a shower pump right for your plumbing system
Shower pumps are generally only for boosting low pressure (gravity) plumbing systems, so if you have tanks in your loft and a copper cylinder in your airing cupboard then you have the right system for a shower pump.
There are other solutions for high pressure systems including accumulators, break tanks, or a home boost pump but a shower pump will not normally be the answer to your issue by itself.
2 – What type of shower do you have?
To determine the type of shower pump you need, assess the specific characteristics of your shower. Consider the number of outlets in your shower, such as a single shower head or multiple shower heads.
Shower pumps are only really suitable for homes with mixer showers, whether they are manual or thermostatic.
If you have an electric shower then this should already be plumbed in to the mains, if you are finding this isn’t producing a strong shower check the pressure coming in to your home is string enough.
3 – Do you need a positive or negative (universal) pump
Most systems showers will need a positive head pump but you will need a negative head pump if you haven’t got a sufficient head of pressure above your shower head to activate the pump. Check the instructions for the pump you plan to purchase and make sure you have sufficient height.
If you don’t then a negative head pump will be required, these tend to be more expensive so it is worth checking beforehand.
4 – Do you need a single or twin impeller shower pump
Consider evaluating whether you require a single or twin impeller shower pump to determine the most suitable option for your needs. A single impeller pump is ideal for boosting either hot or cold water supply, while a twin impeller pump can boost both simultaneously.
In most situations a twin impeller pump will be required. The exceptions would be if the cold side of a shower is on the mains supply but it will be really difficult to balance the supply using a single impeller pump.
5 – What size pipework do you have
Determining the size of your pipework is an essential step in determining the right shower pump for your needs. Here are six steps to help you determine what shower pump you need based on your pipework size:
- Measure the diameter of your existing pipework using a tape measure.
- Check if you have 15mm (½ inch) or 22mm (¾ inch) pipework.
Smaller shower pumps tend to have 15mm supplies and these can boost up to two showers reasonably well. If you are boosting more than two outlets then a larger pump with 22mm supplies will be required.
6 – What pressure (bar) shower pump do you need
Shower pumps are rated in bar, which indicates the level of pressure they can provide. The higher the bar rating, the greater the pressure they can generate. To help you choose the right bar rating for your needs, here is a general guide:
- 1.5 bar: This rating is ideal for most regular showers. It offers a decent water flow and is suitable for most households.
- 2.0 bar: This rating is suitable for powering two or three showers simultaneously. It provides a strong water flow for multiple users.
- 3.0 bar: This rating is perfect for power showers, larger shower heads, and even body jets. It offers a very high-pressure water flow for a luxurious shower experience. 3 bar pumps are also commonly used to pump the hot and cold outlets throughout the home.
Remember that these are general guidelines. It’s important to consider your specific needs and the water pressure in your home before choosing a shower pump with the appropriate bar rating.
What pump brand should I buy
When choosing a shower pump, you should frequently consider the reputable brands such as Stuart Turner, Salamander, and Grundfos. These brands have established themselves as leaders in the industry, offering high-quality pumps that are reliable and long-lasting.
Here are four reasons why you should consider these pump brands:
- Wide range of options: Whether you need a regenerative pump, a twin impeller pump, or a negative head pump, these brands have got you covered. They offer a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences.
- Quality and durability: These brands are known for their commitment to quality. Their pumps are made with quality parts and designed to last. You can trust that your investment will be worth it in the long run.
- Efficient performance: With their advanced technology and design, these pumps deliver excellent performance. Whether you have a single impeller shower or need to boost water pressure in your entire home, these brands can provide the solution.
- High bar rating: The bar rating of a shower pump indicates its water pressure capability. These brands offer pumps with high bar ratings, ensuring a strong and invigorating shower experience.
What are the best shower pumps
When choosing the best shower pump, consider the performance, reliability, and durability of the pump. The best shower pumps are those that can effectively increase water pressure in your shower, especially if you have low water pressure in your home.
We have written an article that covers the best shower pumps for most of the situations that you would find in a home:
- Best Value shower pump – Showermate TP Standard 1.5 bar Twin
- Best shower pump for 2 showers – Stuart Turner Showermate 2.6 bar
- Best 3 bar shower pump – Monsoon Standard Twin 3.0 Bar
- Quietest shower pump – Salamander RP50PT
- Best 1.5 bar shower pump – Stuart Turner Monsoon Standard 1.5 bar
- Best Negative head shower pump – Stuart Turner Monsoon Universal 2.0 Bar
- Best Single Impeller shower pump – Stuart Turner Showermate S2.0 bar Single
Frequently asked questions
Why do shower pumps differ so much in price
The price variation of shower pumps can be attributed to the wide range of features and capabilities they offer. Here are four reasons why shower pumps differ so much in price:
- Different types of shower pumps: There are various types of shower pumps available in the market, each catering to different needs and requirements. The type of pump you choose will greatly influence the price.
- Different materials: Most cheaper pumps are entirely made from plastic, the more expensive models like the Stuart Turner Monsoon have Brass impellers. The short answer is you get what you pay for, the more you pay now the longer your pump should last.
- Boosting the water: The main purpose of a shower pump is to boost the water pressure. The higher the bar rating of the pump, the more powerful it is, and consequently, the higher the price.
How do I reduce noise vibrations from my shower pump
To reduce noise vibrations from your shower pump, follow these simple steps.
First, ensure that your shower pump is installed correctly. Make sure it’s securely mounted to a solid surface, such as a wall or floor, to minimise vibrations.
Additionally, consider using anti-vibration pads or rubber feet to further reduce noise. These can be placed between the pump and the mounting surface to absorb vibrations.
Lastly, consider purchasing one of the quietest shower pumps available. Look for pumps that specifically advertise noise reduction features, such as regenerative pumps with chunky impellers.
What are the quietest shower pumps?
For the quietest shower pumps, consider pumps that prioritise noise reduction features.
The Centrifugal pumps from Salamander are the quietest on the market and have QuietMark accreditation but the Stuart Turner Monsoon range is very close when it comes to noise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a shower pump can be the perfect solution to enhance your showering experience by increasing water pressure. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can determine if you need a shower pump and choose the right one for your needs.
Additionally, we’ve provided tips on reducing noise vibrations and recommended top brands for a quieter and more satisfying shower.
Transform your shower today with the perfect shower pump for you. If you have any questions then leave a comment and I will reply to you.
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