If you’ve ever turned on your shower only to be met with a dribble of water instead of a satisfying stream, you’re not alone. Many homes across Dublin—especially older ones—still rely on gravity fed water systems, which often struggle to deliver the water pressure we all expect these days.
At Dublin Shower Pumps, we’ve seen this issue hundreds of times. From cozy townhouses in Dublin 6 to newly-renovated semis in Dublin 15, homeowners call us when they’re tired of low-pressure showers. One of the first questions we ask is:
“Are you working with a gravity fed or mains pressure system?”
Why? Because the type of water system in your home will determine which shower pump you need, and whether a pump is even necessary at all.
So, let’s break it down—clearly and simply—so you can understand your setup and make the best decision for your shower (and your sanity).
🏡 What Is a Gravity Fed Shower System?
A gravity fed system is one of the most common water systems in older Irish homes. You’ll usually find a cold water storage tank in the attic and a hot water cylinder somewhere below it, like in an airing cupboard. The water flows down to your taps and shower using only the force of gravity—no extra pressure added.
Sounds simple, right? It is. But it also means you’re often dealing with low water pressure, especially if your shower head is at a similar height to the water tank. If your shower barely rinses the shampoo out of your hair or fluctuates in temperature, chances are, you’re working with this setup.
We come across this kind of system all the time in our day-to-day installs, and the fix is usually straightforward: a dedicated shower pump to boost your water pressure and improve your entire shower experience.
Before we get into pump options, let’s quickly compare this with the other common setup: mains pressure systems—and why they behave so differently.
Gravity Fed vs. Mains Pressure Systems: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between these two systems is key to choosing the right shower pump.
Gravity Fed Systems (which we explained above) rely on natural water flow from a tank above. They’re common in older Dublin homes and almost always need a pump to bring your shower pressure up to modern standards.
Mains Pressure Systems, on the other hand, pull water directly from the mains supply—often via a combi boiler or an unvented cylinder. These systems generally have stronger, more consistent pressure without the need for additional pumps.
| Feature | Gravity Fed | Mains Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| Water Source | Storage tank (attic) | Direct from mains |
| Pressure Level | Typically low | Moderate to high |
| Shower Pump Needed? | Usually yes | Sometimes (depends on layout) |
| Common in… | Older homes, renovations | Newer builds, modern systems |
At Dublin Shower Pumps, we always assess your existing water system before installing anything. No guesswork, no cookie-cutter solutions—just the right setup, done right.
Also, keep in mind that gravity fed systems can sometimes be prone to airlocks when installing a new pump. If you’re not sure how to deal with this, check out our guide on how to prevent airlocks in your shower pump.
💡 Best Shower Pumps for Gravity Fed Systems (2025 Picks)
If you’re working with a gravity fed setup, choosing the right shower pump can make all the difference between a weak trickle and a spa-like experience.
Here are a few top performers we regularly install for our customers in Dublin:
🔹 1. Stuart Turner Monsoon Standard
Powerful and quiet
Great for boosting hot and cold feeds
Long-lasting and reliable
🔹 2. Salamander CT Force 20SU
Ideal for low-pressure setups
Anti-vibration design for quieter operation
Excellent build quality
🔹 3. Grundfos Amazon STN
Stainless steel body
Robust and suitable for continuous use
Strong pressure for multiple outlets
Of course, the right choice depends on your specific setup—how far your shower is from the tank, how many outlets you’re using, and what type of water heating you have. We’ll take care of all of that during our consultation.
If you already have a pump installed and it’s not performing like it used to, it might be time for a replacement. Be sure to watch for signs like surging pressure, loud noises, or poor flow. You can also read about some common shower pump replacement problems to help diagnose what’s going on.
🛠️ Already Have a Pump? Signs It Might Be Time for a Replacement
Even the best shower pumps won’t last forever. If your shower used to feel like a waterfall but now barely sprays, there’s a good chance your pump is starting to wear out.
Here are a few common signs we see during call-outs around Dublin:
Inconsistent pressure – sudden drops or surging water flow
Unusual noises – grinding, humming, or rattling sounds
Leaks – moisture or small puddles near the pump
Overheating – the pump shuts down or feels too hot to touch
These symptoms often point to a failing or incorrectly installed unit. Don’t worry—this is something we deal with all the time at Dublin Shower Pumps. Our qualified team can diagnose and replace faulty units with minimal disruption.
You can also take a deeper look at common shower pump replacement problems to see if anything rings a bell. If it does, give us a shout—we’re happy to help.
How We Replace a Shower Pump Safely and Efficiently
When it comes time for a replacement, it’s not just about swapping one pump for another. Proper installation ensures long-term performance, safety, and quiet operation.
Here’s how we handle it:
Initial assessment – We check the type of system, water flow, and overall plumbing setup.
Pump selection – Based on your water system, usage, and home layout, we choose the best-fit model.
Professional installation – Fully compliant with Irish plumbing standards, and always neat and tidy.
Testing and tuning – We test your system thoroughly and adjust settings for optimal performance.
Advice and support – We’ll show you how to care for your pump and spot early warning signs in future.
Want to get familiar with what the replacement process looks like? Take a peek at our guide on how to replace a shower pump for helpful insights.
We always aim to leave your shower better than we found it—stronger pressure, quieter performance, and a much better experience overall.
📍 Why Choose Dublin Shower Pumps?
Choosing the right shower pump is important—but choosing the right team to install it is just as critical. That’s where we come in.
At Dublin Shower Pumps, we specialise in shower pump installation and replacement across the greater Dublin area. Our team has deep experience with both gravity fed and mains pressure systems, and we know the ins and outs of Dublin’s water pressure quirks better than most.
Here’s what makes us a solid choice:
✅ Fully qualified and insured installers
✅ Fast, clean, professional service
✅ Transparent pricing—no surprises
✅ Reliable brands and parts that last
✅ Local knowledge and honest advice
Whether you’re upgrading from a tired old pump or installing one for the first time, we’ll make sure you get the right solution—installed the right way.
📣 Let’s Boost Your Shower Power
Still not sure which shower pump suits your system? No problem—we’re here to help.
We offer straightforward advice, free consultations, and quick turnarounds. If you’re in Dublin and tired of weak showers, noisy pumps, or confusing setup options, let’s chat.
📞 Call us today or book an inspection online—we’ll get your pressure back on track in no time.
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