When considering a common application such as boosting the performance of a shower, the pump will need to be able to switch itself on automatically when the shower is switched on.
A key decision in this respect is whether a 'Standard' or 'Universal' pump type should be used.
UNIVERSAL PUMP TYPE
If the flow from the shower head is LESS than 1 litre per minute, due to gravity flow without a pump fitted then a 'negative head' situation exists and a 'Universal' pump type must be used.
The flow can easily be measured by directing the shower head flow into a measuring jug and recording the fill level after 1 minute.
For a Gravity (Vented) 'Low Pressure System' where the flow from the shower head due to gravity (no pump fitted) is less than 1 litre/min, a 'negative head' situation exists and a 'Universal' pump type must be used.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
If there is any doubt at all - especially if the shower has not yet been installed, opt for a 'Universal' pump type.
You should consider one of the following pump units:
MONSOON (Universal)
SHOWERMATE (Universal)
STANDARD PUMP TYPE
A 'Standard' peripheral pump allows water to run through its pump heads even when it's not running. The pump has a flow sensor that detects this flow to switch the pump on and boost water pressure and flow. The flow switch needs a flow due to gravity alone of at least 1 litre per minute to activate the pump.
If the flow from the shower head is MORE than 1 litre per minute, due to gravity flow without a pump fitted then a 'positive head' situation exists and a 'Standard' pump type can be used.
The flow can easily be measured by directing the shower head flow into a measuring jug and recording the fill level after
1 minute.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Just because there is a 'positive head' created by the height of the cold water tank above the shower outlet, there may still not be enough flow to enable a 'Standard' type pump to work!
For a Gravity (Vented) 'Low Pressure System' where the flow from the shower head due to gravity (no pump fitted) is more than 1 litre/min, a 'positive head' situation exists and a 'Standard' pump type can be used.
You should consider one of the following pump units:
MONSOON (Standard)
SHOWERMATE (Standard)