Do you have a noisy shower pump needing maintenance? Are you worried about how to do it yourself without having to call in an expensive plumber?
Don’t worry because we’ve got your back. In this post, we’ll be walking through how to easily bleed shower pumps in just five simple steps.
Even if DIY isn’t usually your forte, with our comprehensive step-by-step guide and helpful tips thrown in along the way – including safety advice – success is guaranteed! Keep reading to learn more about how to bleed a shower pump!
Step 1: Prepare for the Job Ahead
Before you start bleeding your shower pump, it's important to read the manufacturer's instructions and make sure you have all the necessary tools ready. You'll need a flat-head screwdriver, an adjustable spanner wrench, and some towels on hand.
Bleeding shower pumps can be dangerous if not done correctly, so it’s important to take the necessary safety precautions. Always ensure that you switch off power supply and water before attempting any work on the pump and always wear appropriate protective clothing such as gloves and goggles.
Step 2: Identify the Bleed Screw
The next step is to identify where the bleed screw is located on your shower pump. This screw can usually be found near the top of the unit or sometimes near its side - depending on what type of model you have. Once you've found it, use a flat-head screwdriver to loosen the head of the screw so that you can remove it completely from its housing.
Step 3: Bleed Your Pump
Now it’s time to bleed your pump! Place a towel underneath each of the valves and open them up slowly using a flathead screwdriver until air starts coming out from them (you should hear a hissing sound).
Once all the air has been released from both valves and only water remains, close them back up tightly using a flathead screwdriver again and wipe away any excess moisture from around each valve using an absorbent cloth or paper towels.
Step 4: Re-Attach The Screw
Once you're sure that all of the air has been released, it's time to re-attach the bleed screw. Using your adjustable spanner wrench, tighten the head of the screw so that it is secure in its housing and won't come loose during operation. Make sure to not overtighten it, however, as this could cause damage to the seal around your shower pump.
Step 5: Test Your Pump
The last step is to turn on the water supply and plug back in your power supply then turn on both hot and cold taps simultaneously to make sure the pump starts and to see if there are any leaks or strange noises coming from inside your shower pump. If everything seems okay then congrats! You have successfully bled your shower pump.
If there are still issues with weak water pressure or strange noises coming from your shower pump or if you have a leaking pump, then contact a local plumber who can take a closer look at it for further diagnosis and repair advice if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my shower pump needs to be bled?
If your shower is not producing the same power or pressure that it used to or you have a pulsing pump, chances are the pump needs to be bled. You may also notice a gurgling sound coming from the pump when you turn on the shower.
If your shower has become excessively noisy, then this is another sign that there may be air trapped in your pump and require bleeding. The air causes increased turbulence inside the pump, which leads to excessive noise levels. Therefore, if you can hear an annoying sound coming from your shower system, it’s time to take action!
Once I have bled my pump, should I replace any parts?
If the pump was working properly before it needed bleeding then usually no further repairs or replacement parts will be necessary. However, if you notice any leaks or other issues after bleeding the pump then it’s best to consult with a professional plumber who can better assess what repairs need to be done.
How often should I bleed shower pumps?
It is recommended that you bleed your shower pump once a year. This will help keep the pump in good working condition and ensure it’s producing maximum pressure and power.
What should I do if I have a problem bleeding my shower pump?
If you’re having difficulty bleeding the shower pump, it’s best to consult a professional plumber for assistance. A professional will be able to quickly and safely identify the issue and carry out any necessary repairs.
Is a shower pump right for me?
Shower pumps are a great way to improve water flow and pressure and power within your home. Having a pump installed is one of the easiest ways to improve your showering experience since there is no need for a new boiler or complicated plumbing work in order to install one.
How do I choose the right shower for my home?
Choosing the right shower is an important decision and it’s important to take into consideration the size of your bathroom, water pressure and power requirements. You should also consider whether you need a combi boiler or electric shower as these have different requirements too. And don't forget to think about features like the type of shower head or if you want body jets.
Check out our Shower Buying Guide for more tips!
Final Thoughts
Whether you're fixing up your own home or helping someone else out who needs assistance with their plumbing system, following these steps should make short work of getting things back up and running smoothly again in no time at all.
Bleeding shower pumps is an important part of its maintenance and should never be overlooked as doing so could lead to costly repairs down the line. So remember, bleed your shower pumps regularly!
Don't hesitate to contact our team of experts today for more information!