How to install a shower pump in 2026: Key steps & DIY pitfalls

Fitting a shower pump isn't the most exciting of bathroom renovation tasks. But when done properly, it can:

• Boost weak water pressure

• Deliver a stronger water flow

• Transform your shower experience

Use this How to Install a Shower Pump guide to learn about the steps involved – and the costly DIY mishaps to avoid.

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Reasons to install a shower pump

The most obvious benefit of fitting a shower pump is to boost its performance. Meaning a more enjoyable showering experience, and faster rinsing of suds!

In a nutshell, here's the main benefits of installing a shower pump:

• Stronger water pressure

• More consistent water flow, even during peak usage times

• Improved performance for rainfall and multi-head showers

• Better water delivery in properties with low water pressure

Tools for DIY shower pump installation

• Your chosen pump (e.g., negative/positive head, twin or single shower)

• Towels

• Bucket

• Monkeywrench

• Screwdriver

• Electrical tester (to verify that the power supply is safely switched off before installation)

Preparation for a shower pump installation

When you’re planning how to install a shower pump, start by considering these three important points:

• Safety: Water and electrics are a dangerous combination. Make sure your electricity and water are turned off before you start (and that anyone else in the house knows what you are doing)

• Location: You'll need to install your water pump somewhere with easy access for servicing, cleaning, or changing the filters. A great spot is under the bath (as long as it can be accessed easily with a tool)

• Size of pump: Most homeowners choose a 1.5 to 2.0 bar pump for a noticeable boost in pressure. If in doubt, a plumber can advise on what's best for your household size and water usage

How to fit a shower pump: step by step

1. Safety first

• Switch off the electricity at the mains, using your electrical tester to check that the electrical circuits are safely isolated

• Turn off the water supply to prevent leaks and water damage when disconnecting and connecting pipework during the installation

2. Check safety regulations

• Choose a warm and dry place to install your shower pump

• Ensure the shower pump is at least two feet or 600mm away from the shower tray or basin - this is an important electrical wiring regulation that can't be ignored

• Make sure the pump isn't covered or at risk of being covered, and that it is well-ventilated. This is to ensure the motor doesn't overheat and cause unrepairable damage

• Similarly, you want to avoid exposing your pump to low temperatures to prevent frost or freezing

3. Connect the pump to the electric supply

• When you connect your shower pump to your property's electrical supply, don't connect it to anything that needs a dedicated supply of energy (e.g. the hot water heater)

• Connect the pump to a suitably rated 230V fused switched spur

• Make sure to check your manufacturer's instructions too

4. Isolate the water supply

• Fit a 22mm full-bore isolating valve onto your hot and cold water supply

• This allows the pump to be isolated for maintenance and repairs

5. Fit a flange

• If you're connecting the pump to a vented hot water cylinder, fit a suitable flange to help prevent air from entering the pump and affecting performance

• You'll need either a Surrey flange for 15mm connections or an Essex flange for 22mm connections, depending on the size of your shower pump

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6. Use flexible hoses

• Flexible hoses linked to the incoming and outgoing delivery pipes help prevent damage to the pump

• They also reduce the noise it makes

7. Flush the pipework

• Now it's time to flush the pipework to prevent rogue debris (think rust flakes and sediment) from damaging to the pump. It also prevents air from getting trapped and causing issues with your pump's performance

• Remember, you need the electrics off for this

• Run a bucket of water from both the hot and cold tanks. As soon as the water runs clear, your shower pump is good to go

8. Turn on the power

• Congratulations! You've successfully installed your shower pump

• Now, turn on the power and water supply and enjoy that power shower

9. Maintenance

• Maintenance is vital to keep your shower pump ticking along as it should and stop it from becoming noisy

• Shower pump filters should be cleaned every 6 to 12 months

• However, if you live in a hard-water area, you might want to check them every 3 months

• You may occasionally need to bleed a shower pump if there's a trap in the air flow

Realised there's more to installing a shower pump than you first thought? Contact a qualified plumber, and they can get it sorted for you.

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FAQs

Is it worth getting a shower pump?

Installing a shower pump is a good idea, especially if you have low water pressure. A shower pump can significantly improve the flow and performance, making it more enjoyable and efficient to use.

How much does a shower pump cost to install professionally?

The cost for installing a shower pump depends on the shower pump you choose and who you hire to help install it. Most plumbers will cost around £50per hour.

Check out our plumber cost guide for a full breakdown of prices.

How do shower pumps work?

Most shower pumps use two impellers (rotating components of a centrifugal pump) to pump two separate water supplies: the hot and the cold. They're both fed from a water tank in your loft and help add pressure using push-fit flexible piping. Your shower controls then mix the pumped water to the desired pressure.

How do you install a shower pump on a gravity-fed system?

A 'gravity-fed system' usually means there's a cold water tank in the loft and a hot water tank in the airing cupboard. The installation of a shower pump is much the same as above. However, it's important to note that gravity-fed systems often run out of water when a pump is installed. So, it might be worth installing new water tanks or taking shorter showers!

Where do I install a shower pump?

A shower pump is usually installed close to the hot water cylinder, often in an airing cupboard or loft space. It should be easily accessible for maintenance and positioned according to the manufacturer's instructions.

What is the life expectancy of a shower pump?

A well-maintained shower pump typically lasts between 5 and 15 years, depending on the quality of the pump, how often it's used, and the water conditions in your home.

Does a shower pump use a lot of electricity?

No, shower pumps generally use relatively little electricity because they only run while the shower is in use. Running costs will vary depending on the pump's size and power rating.

What size pump do I need for my shower?

Most homeowners choose a 1.5 to 2.0 bar pump for a noticeable boost in pressure. The right size will depend on your existing water pressure, plumbing system, and the type of shower you have.

Do I need a plumber or an electrician to fit a shower pump?

You'll usually need a qualified plumber to install the pump and connect it to your water system. A certified electrician may also be required if a new electrical connection is needed.

Can I install a shower pump myself?

If you're an experienced DIYer and are confident working with both electrics and plumbing, installing a shower pump yourself is doable.

However, shower pump installation can be complex, and mistakes may damage your plumbing system. Remember, water and electrics are a dangerous combination.

If under any doubt, hiring a qualified plumber to install your shower pump is the safest and most reliable option.

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