Pressure pumps

How to choose a pressure pump

There are three main types, plus controllers and pressure tanks that protect the pump and smooth out the pressure.

• Start with where the water comes from

  If your tank is buried, below ground or sits lower than the pump, a jet pump is a common choice because it can draw water up to the pump. For an above-ground tank, or for boosting low mains pressure, look at a multistage or variable speed pump.

• Multistage or variable speed?

  Both suit an above-ground tank or a mains boost. A multistage pump builds pressure through several stages, and it's simpler and usually lower cost. A variable speed pump changes its speed to match how much water you're using, for steadier pressure and quieter running.

• Controllers and pressure tanks

  A controller switches the pump on when a tap opens and off when it closes, and run-dry protection switches it off if the water runs out. A pressure tank holds water under pressure, so the pump doesn't start every time a tap opens. If your pump keeps switching on and off, the tank may have lost its pre-charge.

• Let us size it for you

  The right pump depends on how many taps run at once. Tell us how many bathrooms and taps you have, your water source, and how far the water sits below the pump, and we'll size it. Each product page lists the maker's flow and head.