How to Increase Combi Boiler Shower Pressure

Low shower water pressure is a problem for many homeowners who have a combi boiler and it can be extremely frustrating. 

If you have a combi boiler, your options in increasing your water pressure are limited. Despite this, there are a few steps you can take to improve your boiler flow rate. 

Is shower pressure better with a combi boiler?

You may expect a combi boiler to provide better shower pressure since it gets the water from the mains, but this generally depends on how strong the water pressure is from the mains itself.

Homes with strong water pressure from the mains will benefit from a strong flow of water from taps and showers. However, for those with low water pressure, you may struggle to get a good flow of water pressure to your shower, even if you do have a combi boiler. 

A combi boiler in a home with low water pressure may also struggle to send enough hot water when multiple taps are open, such as a shower and a downstairs sink. 

How do I increase water pressure in my shower with a combi boiler?

Since combi boilers are mains fed, you are limited in options when it comes to increasing water pressure. Unfortunately, you can’t use a pump directly from the mains to provide an extra boost, but there are a few steps you can take to ensure you get the water pressure you want. 

When you’re choosing a boiler, it’s always important to check it is powerful enough to supply a strong, consistent flow of water. You should be looking for an appropriate flow rate, which is simply how much water can pass through the appliance to feed showers and taps once the boiler is working. An ideal flow rate for a combi boiler is at least 12-15 litres of water per minute. 

Choosing a combi boiler with a good flow rate will help you to optimise hot water pressure throughout your home. However, it is important to remember that you are restricted in terms of flow rate by the mains pressure delivered to your property. 

This means that if you get a combi boiler with a maximum water supply that exceeds your mains water supply, you could be wasting your money as your boiler won’t be reaching its full potential. 

It may also be worth checking for blockages and leaks, as well as checking the mains water supply to see if there are any other issues affecting the water pressure

Are there other ways to increase shower water pressure with a combi boiler?

One alternative to increase water pressure with a combi boiler is by having an electric shower. 

Electric showers are a great option as they take cold water directly from the mains, bypassing the need to take water from the boiler. Instead, a heating element in the shower unit itself heats the water to the desired temperature. 

As they don’t take water from the boiler, electric showers provide a consistent and reliable flow rate even when multiple taps are open and being used at the same time. 

The stronger the kilowatt rating of the electric shower, the stronger the flow. However, this is only to a certain extent as the water still comes from the mains. 

If you are struggling with the water pressure coming from your combi boiler, or you’re interested in having an electric shower fitted, feel free to contact our team today.