Although some modern houses use mains pressure systems, traditionally, most UK households have low pressure water systems, with water being stored in a tank in the loft space. This water is then distributed to the various places around the house, in the case of hot water via the hot water tank, at low pressure - the pressure being dependent upon the height of the loft tank above the tap / shower.

With the increased use of showers, householders are looking for better showering experiences, and the simplest way of achieveing this is through the use of a pump, which will increase both water pressure and flow at the shower.

Two basic forms of pump are available - the Power Shower which is a complete unit that is mounted in the shower cubicle, or a separate pump that is mounted remotely from the shower. Both types are electrically powered. The pumps are available in a range of pressures - typically 1.5 to 3bar.