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"Pete C" wrote in message
...
On 24 Nov 2004 13:54:10 -0800, (Chris) wrote:

To explain - I've just installed a Pandora heat bank. This replaced
my previous system which had a cold water tank and how water cylinder,
with a big American pump to give me a really excellent shower.

I have to say that I'm a little disappointed with the pressure from
the cold mains. I will be getting my plumber to have a look at the
pipe runs etc, to ensure that I am getting the most from my current
system. However I suspect that i've just been spoiled by the luxure
of having a pump.

So my question is, what would happen if I put the pump back in
circuit? I'm confident that the Pandora could cope with the increased
heat demand. But would I be able to significantly increase the water
pressure? Would this have any knock-on effect for my neighbours? And
what would Thames Water say if they found out (and would they ever
find out?)

Hi,

Would be worth measuring the static mains pressure at peak times, then
the pressure at the stopcock when the shower is on. This would give
the maximum possible shower pressure, and how much flow restriction
there is before the stop cock or by the stop cock itself.

If you did use a pump on the mains then it would be well worth having
a non return valve on the pump inlet to air. This would stop the mains
pressure going negative by allowing air to bleed in. Definately not an
approved way of doing things though.

I'd expect there are dedicated mains booster pumps available that have
a low pressure cutout.

Only in exceptional circumstances will mains pumps be allowed. It will
probably be cheaper to replace the whole mains pipe back to the street and
then no pumps to make and noise, take up space and go wrong.