Are you struggling with low water pressure in your shower despite having a combi boiler?
Understanding the dynamics of boiler pressure and water pressure is crucial in solving this common issue. In this guide on “How to Increase Shower Water Pressure With a Combi Boiler,” we will delve into the differences between boiler system pressure and water pressure, identify reasons for low water pressure with a combi boiler, and explore effective solutions to boost water pressure.
From installing a Home Boost pump to choosing the right combination boiler, we’ve got you covered with practical tips to enhance your shower experience.
Boiler pressure and combination boilers
Understanding the difference between boiler pressure and water pressure is crucial for resolving low water pressure problems.
Boiler pressure pertains to the pressure within the heating system, whereas water pressure refers to the pressure of the water supply.
To ascertain if you are experiencing low water pressure, you can examine the flow rate at your kitchen tap or employ a pressure gauge to directly measure the water pressure.
What is the difference between boiler (system) pressure and water pressure
To differentiate between boiler (system) pressure and water pressure in combi boilers, it’s important to understand their distinct functions and how they relate to each other.
Here are the key differences:
- Boiler (system) pressure: This refers to the pressure within the combi boiler system itself. If it gets too high, the boiler’s pressure relief valve releases the pressure, and it is increased by opening the filling loop normally underneath, this is typically set to a specific range measure on the gauge or display on the front of the boiler (1.5 bar is usually safe). The boiler pressure is crucial for the proper functioning of the system and should be within the recommended range. If you find it is regularly dropping, then it is best to contact your heating engineer to diagnose the fault.
- Water pressure: This is the pressure of the water supply to your home that enters the combi boiler and is delivered to your shower. It’s determined by the mains water pressure and any restrictions or blockages in the pipes. Low water pressure can result in a weak flow of water from your shower.
Now you understand the difference between the two, let’s look at how to measure your water pressure and how to improve it!
How do you know if you have low water pressure?
You can measure the water pressure of your incoming mains supply by putting a pressure gauge on either a washing machine tap or an outside tap. If it is around 3 bar, then this is perfect for a combi boiler, if it is much higher, you should consider reducing it. If the pressure is less than 1 bar then your boiler probably won’t be able to generate as much hot water as its specifications say they will.
Incoming water flow can be measured with a weir gauge, or by measuring how much water it in a large jug after 10 seconds and multiplying the result by 6 to get a result in litres per minute. To get a decent shower from most combi boilers, you will need around 15 litres a minute as an average 30kW boiler delivers around 10 litres a minute of hot water, and then you need some cold to cool this down.
How can showers have low pressure with a combination boiler?
If you’re experiencing low water pressure in your showers with a combi boiler, there are several factors that could be contributing to the issue.
First, check the incoming mains pressure, as low pressure from the main water supply can affect the flow in your showers.
Additionally, blocked shower heads, leaks in your home’s plumbing, and scale build-up in the pipework and boiler’s heat exchanger can all lead to reduced water pressure.
1. Low incoming mains pressure
Low incoming mains pressure is a common cause of low water pressure in showers when using a combi boiler. Here are three factors to consider when dealing with low incoming mains pressure and how to increase water pressure in your showers:
- Check the water pressure: Measure the water pressure at your mains water supply to determine if it’s below the recommended level. This can be done using a pressure gauge.
- Contact your water supplier: If the water pressure is consistently low, contact your water supplier to inquire about any ongoing issues or maintenance work that may be affecting the water pressure in your area.
- Install a booster pump: If the low water pressure persists, consider installing a booster pump. Like the Salamander Home Boost. This device can increase the water pressure in your shower by boosting the flow of water from the main supply, just bear in mind there are limits to how much you can boost mains pressure, and this type of pump cuts out if these are exceeded.
2. Blocked shower heads
Blocked shower heads can significantly affect the water flow and pressure in your showers. This can be especially common in areas with hard water, where limescale build-up can occur. When the shower head becomes blocked, it restricts the water flow, resulting in reduced water pressure. You can fix this by using a descaler on your shower heads regularly
3. A leak in your home’s plumbing
Check for any leaks in your home’s plumbing to determine if they’re causing low water pressure in your showers with a combination boiler.
A leak in your home’s plumbing will significantly decrease water pressure in your shower as the water will be escaping elsewhere, fix any leaks promptly and call an expert if you are unsure.
4. Scale build-up in your pipework and your boiler’s heat exchanger
To increase shower water pressure with a combination boiler, you can address the issue of limescale build-up in your pipework and the boiler’s heat exchanger.
Limescale build-up refers to the accumulation of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, in the pipework and heat exchanger. Over time, this limescale can restrict the flow of water, resulting in low water pressure.
The combination boiler’s heat exchanger is particularly vulnerable to limescale build-up, as it constantly heats water and then cools back down. Furthermore, the waterways in a plate heat exchanger are extremely small to make them efficient, this can make these issues worse. To tackle this issue, you may be able to have the heat exchange descaled, but if the issue is especially bad it may need replacing. You can prevent this going forward with a water softener or conditioner.
Regularly descaling your system can help restore water pressure and ensure efficient operation of your combination boiler.
5. Ensure your stopcock and supply valves are fully open
This one is an obvious one, but it needs to be included! You should ensure your stopcock and supply valves are fully open! It is certainly worth checking, especially if you have recently carried out maintenance, stopcocks in particular, are prone to failure as they are so rarely moved, check yours but if it’s difficult to move in either direction, it may need to be replaced.
How to boost water pressure with a combi boiler
To increase water pressure with a combination boiler, there are several options you can consider.
Firstly, you can install a Home Boost pump, which will enhance the water pressure throughout your home.
Secondly, selecting a powerful combination boiler that provides a high hot water flow rate can also assist in increasing water pressure in your shower.
Furthermore, it is important to refrain from using taps or other showers while using the shower to ensure optimal water pressure.
Lastly, using a water softener or water conditioner can aid in reducing scale accumulation, which in turn can improve water flow and pressure.
1. Install a Home Boost pump
If you want to increase the water pressure with your combination boiler, you can install a Home Boost pump. This pump is specifically designed to increase the water flow and pressure in your home, including your showers.
Here are three reasons why installing a Home Boost pump can help improve your shower water pressure with a combination boiler:
- Boosts water flow: The Home Boost pump works by increasing the water flow rate, ensuring a steady and powerful stream of water for your showers. This means you can enjoy a more invigorating and satisfying shower experience.
- Improves water pressure: By increasing the water pressure in your home, the Home Boost pump ensures that your showers have enough pressure to provide a refreshing and thorough cleanse. No more weak and dribbling showers!
- Compatible with combination boilers: The Home Boost pump is specially designed to work seamlessly with combination boilers, making it an ideal solution for increasing shower water pressure in homes with this type of heating system.
Boost your incoming mains pressure
Salamander Home Boost
- Enhances mains flow to whole house
- Intelligently detects flow to save energy
- QuietMark approved
- 3 year warranty
2. Select a high-performance combination boiler for a greater hot water flow rate.
Choose a high-performance combination boiler to increase the flow rate of hot water in your showers. When selecting a combination boiler, it is essential to consider its capacity and performance to ensure that it can deliver the desired water pressure. A powerful combination boiler will have a higher flow rate of hot water, allowing you to enjoy a more satisfying shower experience. However, it is extremely important to note, if you don’t have enough water coming in to your property increasing your boiler size will make no difference.
3. Avoid using taps (or other showers) while the shower is in use.
When using a combination boiler for your hot water, it is important to avoid using taps or other showers while the shower is in use. This is because using multiple sources of water simultaneously can divide the available water pressure among them, resulting in lower water pressure for the shower.
To ensure optimal water pressure for your shower, follow these guidelines:
- Prioritise the shower: When you need to use the shower, refrain from using any other taps or showers in your home. This way, all the available water pressure can be directed towards the shower, resulting in a more powerful flow.
- Coordinate water usage: Communicate with other household members to ensure that they are aware of your shower time. This will help avoid any unnecessary use of taps or showers, allowing you to have uninterrupted high water pressure during your shower.
4. Use a water softener or water conditioner to reduce limescale buildup
To effectively address scale build-up and increase water pressure with a combi boiler, utilise a water softener or water conditioner. Scale build-up is a common issue in areas with hard water, where minerals like calcium and magnesium can accumulate in pipes and appliances. This build-up can restrict water flow and decrease water pressure in your shower.
By using a water softener or water conditioner, you can reduce the amount of minerals in the water, preventing scale build-up and improving water pressure. These devices work by removing or neutralising the minerals, ensuring that your combi boiler receives clean and soft water.
This won’t only increase water pressure in your shower, but also extend the lifespan of your combi boiler by preventing damage caused by scale build-up.
Should you exchange your combi boiler for a system or conventional boiler?
If you’re considering increasing your shower water pressure with a combination boiler, you may be wondering if swapping your combination boiler for a system or conventional boiler is the right choice.
It’s important to understand the differences between these types of boilers and how they can affect your water pressure and hot water demands.
Combination boilers are known for their ability to provide high water pressure, as they heat water directly from the main supply and deliver it at the same pressure. This makes them ideal for powerful showers.
However, if you have a larger house with multiple bathrooms or high hot water demands, a system or conventional boiler might be a better option. These boilers don’t provide hot water on demand but heat up water in a cylinder to be used at a later time, these are suitable for larger properties with multiple bathrooms.
Before making a decision, it’s important to assess your specific needs and consult with a qualified heating engineer who can advise you on the best boiler option for your home.
Frequently asked questions
Can you have a power shower with a combi boiler?
No, power showers contain a pump to boost pressure and are not designed to work on high pressure system.
Can you have an electric shower with a combination boiler?
You can definitely have an electric shower with a combination boiler. Electric showers are an option for those who want a shower without using their boiler to heat the water. However, no electric shower will match the performance of a combi boiler supplying a mixer shower. You can find our rundown of the most powerful electric showers here.
Can you install a shower pump to a combination boiler?
No, shower pumps are for low-pressure (Tanks in the loft) systems and are not designed to pump water from the mains. A Home Boost is a pump designed to boost mains pressure and is suitable for combi boilers.
What are the best showers for a combination boiler?
When considering the best showers for a combination boiler, it’s important to evaluate the compatibility and performance of different options.
Combination boilers typically provide high water pressure, making mixer showers a suitable choice. Mixer showers work by blending hot and cold water together to achieve the desired temperature. They’re ideal for combination boilers because they can deliver a powerful shower even with low mains water pressure.
Electric showers, on the other hand, are an option for when you want to run a shower independently of the boiler.
Digital and smart showers are the final option, these are available suitable for high pressure and offer a modern solution.
When choosing the right shower for your combination boiler, consider factors such as water pressure, compatibility, and personal preferences to ensure a satisfying shower experience.
What is the minimum combination boiler flow rate for a good shower?
To run a mixer shower, the minimum flow rate should be at least 9 litres per minute (l/min). This ensures that a sufficient amount of water is delivered to the showerhead, resulting in a satisfying shower experience. However a flow rate closed to 15 litres a minute would provide a noticeable improvement.
Can I have a combination boiler if my water pressure is low?
The good news is that you can still have a combination boiler even if your water pressure is low, but you may need to boost the pressure if it is really low, and you will need at least 1 bar of pressure to initially fill the system so that it will work.
Combination boilers are designed to work with a wide range of water pressure, including low water pressure. However, it’s important to note that low water pressure can affect the performance of the combination boiler, especially when it comes to the shower.
Will I have good water pressure with a combination boiler?
You can expect good water pressure with a combination boiler. Combination boilers are designed to provide hot water directly from the mains water supply, ensuring a consistent and strong water pressure. The higher the output of the boiler, the more hot water it will produce.
What is the maximum mains water pressure for a combination boiler?
Normally the maximum pressure that a combination boiler can withstand is 10 bar but it will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so check the specifications of your particular model. If your water pressure is this high, then you should probably consider reducing it as there will be other appliances on your system that could be damaged by pressure this high.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing low water pressure in your showers with a combi boiler system, there are several solutions available to help improve the water flow.
From addressing blocked shower heads to fixing leaks in pipes, these techniques can enhance your showering experience.
Additionally, considering alternatives such as swapping your combi boiler for a system or regular boiler may also provide better water pressure.
By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy powerful showers with the help of your combi boiler.
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