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How to bleed a shower pump

Are you having problems with your shower pump? Strange noises, fluctuations in temperature or pulsing when in use? If this all sounds very familiar, you might want to try bleeding your shower pump to see if it can resolve the problem.

Bleeding your shower pump can help to resolve all sorts of issues, from strange noises to your shower pulsing when in use. Here, we’ll show you how to bleed a shower pump so you can resolve those annoying niggles and get back to enjoying your long morning showers!

How to know if your shower pump needs bleeding

In most cases a shower pump needs bleeding because of an airlock in the system. There are several common symptoms of an airlocked shower.

Identifying these symptoms will give you a better idea of whether you have an airlock that can be fixed by bleeding your shower pump or if the problem is more serious and will require calling a plumber.

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A pulsing shower pump

When running correctly, your shower pump should provide a regular boost to your water pressure. When air becomes trapped somewhere in the system, it can cause the water flow to pulse on and off.

Loud noises from your shower pump

An excessively noisy shower pump is also a common sign of an airlock in the system. Loud banging noises or excessive vibrations can be caused by an airlock forcing the pump to work harder and causing it to stop and start.

A sudden drop in water pressure

Your shower pump helps to regulate water pressure. An airlock can cause water pressure to drop. This problem could be mechanical but it’s worth bleeding the pump first before carrying out any further investigations.

All these signs suggest that you may have an airlock in your shower system. Now let’s look at the tools you need and the best way to bleed a shower pump.

What tools do I need to bleed a shower pump?

Bleeding a shower pump is a reasonably easy task and should be easily completed by an experienced DIYer.

All you need to get started are a pair of pliers and some towels to stop any excess water from causing damage to the surrounding area. Then, you’re ready to go.

How to bleed a shower pump

By following these steps, you can easily bleed your shower pump and release any air trapped in the system. Hopefully, this will get your shower back to full working order in no time at all.

1. Switch off the pump

Water and electrics are a dangerous combination. Ensure that the electrics to your shower pump are turned off before you start and that anyone else in the house knows what you are doing.

2. Remove the showerhead

Showerheads vary from model to model. You may need to use your pliers to remove the head from the hose or it may be possible to unscrew it by hand.

3. Turn the shower on cold

Once you have removed the showerhead, turn on the shower at the coldest temperature and run on full blast for approximately five minutes.

4. Turn the shower to hot

Now reverse the temperature. Turn the shower thermostat to the hottest temperature and run on full blast for another five minutes.

5. Let the hose fully drain

Once you have run the shower on hot and cold, turn the shower off. Place the hose hanging down and the showerhead in the bathtub or shower cubicle and leave to fully drain. This should take around 20 minutes.

6. Turn on the shower pump and test the shower

Now it’s time to test the shower. Turn it back on at the electric switch and turn on your shower like normal. Is it still pulsing, vibrating, or making a noise? Has the pressure improved?

If the problems you were experiencing have gone, then you’ve cleared the airlock and the shower is ready to use.

If the problems persist, then it’s probably time to contact a professional.

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If you haven’t been able to resolve your shower pump problem yourself, don’t worry. You’re in the right place.

With 47,000 approved tradespeople in our trusted directory, Checkatrade is the place to find the help you need.

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