Goodbye low pressure: better understanding how a booster works
Are you tired of a shower that lacks vigor, dishes that take forever because the water is too weak, or garden watering that feels more like a trickle? You're not alone! Low water pressure is a common problem, but there's an effective and reliable solution: a pressure booster . Often overlooked by the general public, this piece of equipment is the key to transforming your water experience at home or in your business.
In this article, we'll explore in detail what a booster pump is, why and how it can improve your daily life, and how to choose the model that's perfectly suited to your needs.
Table of Contents
What is a booster pump and how does it work?
A pressure booster , also called a hydrophore group or pressure booster pump , is an intelligent system designed to increase and stabilize the water pressure in your system. It doesn't just "push" water; it dynamically manages it to provide you with constant comfort.
Its main components are:
The Water Pump: This is the heart of the system. It sucks in water and propels it under pressure. Booster pumps are often self-priming , which means they can draw water from an external source (a well, a cistern, a ditch, a canal) via a suction pipe . This pipe connects directly to the pump inlet, with its end submerged in the water source. Water is drawn into the pump body and then discharged at high pressure through the outlet, ready for use.
The pressure tank (or expansion tank/tank): This component is crucial for the lifespan of your installation and your comfort. It stores a certain volume of water under pressure. Its presence prevents the pump from being triggered every time a small amount of water is needed (such as a glass of water being drawn or a toilet being flushed). The pump first uses the water accumulated in this expansion tank, which significantly reduces the number of start-stop cycles of the pump, thus extending its lifespan and limiting power consumption.
The pressure switch: This is the brain that controls the pump. It detects pressure variations in the circuit. When the pressure drops below a predefined threshold (for example, when you turn on a faucet), the pressure switch activates the pump. When the pressure rises to an optimal level, it stops it.
Why do you need a booster pump? Common scenarios
A booster pump is not a luxury, but a necessity in many situations to improve your quality of life and the efficiency of your equipment.
Low water pressure from the public network: If your local water supply does not provide sufficient pressure, a booster pump becomes essential to ensure a comfortable flow rate for all your daily needs.
Large or multi-story homes: In large or multi-story homes, pressure can drop drastically at the most distant or high-rise water points. The pressure booster ensures consistent pressure throughout the home.
Irrigation and Watering Systems: For a lush garden or well-watered crops, consistent, high pressure is essential. A pressure booster system efficiently powers sprinklers, garden hoses, and irrigation systems.
Supply from a private source: If your water comes from a well, a rainwater collection tank or a borehole, a booster pump is essential to deliver this pressurized water to your toilets, washing machines, sinks, or any other domestic point of use.
The concrete benefits of installing a booster pump
Installing a booster pump offers multiple benefits that significantly improve your comfort and the efficiency of your installation:
Increased comfort: No more anemic showers! Enjoy a powerful, consistent stream for a better daily experience.
Constant water flow: Whether you're running water in the kitchen, running the washing machine, or someone taking a shower, the pressure remains stable.
Protecting your appliances: Stable pressure protects your household appliances (washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters) from pressure fluctuations that can damage them.
Water and energy savings: By avoiding overconsumption due to low flow (the water is left to run for longer), and thanks to intelligent systems that optimize pump operation (such as frequency converters), you can save money.
Rainwater/well water recovery: The booster pump makes the use of alternative water sources practical and efficient, contributing to more ecological and economical actions.
How to choose the right booster? The essential criteria
There is a wide range of booster pumps , and choosing the right model requires considering several key factors. As a product tester, I can guide you in making the right choice.
1. Flow rate: How much water do you need?
Flow rate is the amount of water the booster pump can deliver in a given time (usually expressed in liters per minute or cubic meters per hour). For a home, estimate your needs by adding the flow rates of the appliances you might use simultaneously. For example, a shower uses approximately 10-15 L/min, a faucet 6-10 L/min, and a washing machine 10 L/cycle. A family of 4 will have different needs than a small business.
2. Pressure: The force of the jet
Pressure pressure of 2.5 to 3 bars is generally sufficient for domestic comfort. If you have specific equipment (complex automatic watering, massage jets), you may need a higher pressure. It is crucial to correctly connect the pump to your home's water supply, respecting the inlet and outlet directions so that the water is projected at the correct pressure into your system.
3. The size of the tank (expansion tank)
As mentioned earlier, tank size is critical. A expansion tank prevents the pump from starting for small amounts of water (a glass of water, a toilet flush). This reduces wear on the pump, extends its lifespan, and lowers your power consumption. The larger the tank, the less frequently the pump starts.
4. The noise level
Some booster pumps can be noisy. If the unit is installed near living areas (kitchen, adjacent laundry room), noise level is an important factor. Models like the E.sybox mini ATM (around 45 decibels) are among the quietest on the market, which is a major asset for the peace and quiet of your home.
5. Electricity consumption
Recent models, especially those equipped with a frequency converter , are much more energy efficient. The frequency converter allows the pump to adapt its rotation speed to the actual water demand. The pump does not run at full speed if only one tap is open, which optimizes electricity consumption and reduces the number of revolutions per minute of the motor, thus preserving the device.
6. Type of use and materials
Some boosters are versatile, others are more specific.
Rainwater recovery or watering: Many models are optimal for these uses, particularly those with an integrated expansion tank.
Domestic supply: For drinking water, ensure that the booster meets health standards and that its materials do not degrade the quality of the water.
Pump Body Materials: You will find pump bodies made of polypropylene or stainless steel . Stainless steel is often preferred for its resistance to corrosion and rust, ensuring better durability, especially if the treated water contains impurities or is slightly acidic.
Installation and maintenance
Installing a pressure booster must be done with care. Although guides exist, it is strongly recommended to call a professional plumber . Proper installation guarantees:
Safety: Prevent leakage, short circuits and malfunctions.
Optimal performance: Proper connection of suction and discharge pipes, as well as proper sizing, are essential.
Compliance with standards: Compliance with local plumbing regulations.
When it comes to maintenance , a booster is generally robust. Here are some key points:
Checking the tank pressure: The expansion tank must maintain a certain air pressure. Check it periodically and adjust it if necessary (usually once or twice a year).
Dry-run protection: The best booster pumps are equipped with a dry-run protection . This means that if there is no water in the source (empty cistern, dry well), the pump will automatically shut off to prevent damage. This is an essential feature for the durability of your equipment.
Cleaning the pre-filter: If your system includes a pre-filter, clean it regularly to prevent it from clogging and reducing water flow.
FAQ about boosters
Q1: My booster pump is making noise and triggering often, is this normal?
A: Too frequent and noisy triggering may indicate a problem with the expansion tank (insufficient air pressure), a leak in the circuit, or a booster pump that is undersized for your needs. It is advisable to check the expansion tank pressure or consult a professional.
Q2: Can I use a booster pump for my city water?
A: Yes, absolutely. This is one of the most common uses to compensate for low municipal water pressure. Just make sure the model is suitable for drinking water if that's your primary purpose.
Q3: What is the average lifespan of a booster?
A: With proper installation and regular maintenance, a quality booster pump can last 10 to 15 years, or even longer. Dry-running protection and a properly sized expansion tank greatly contribute to its longevity.
Conclusion: The comfort of pressurized water
A pressure booster pump is more than just a pump; it's a complete solution to transform your water experience. Whether you're looking to improve your shower pressure, power a high-performance sprinkler system, or make an external water source usable, it's the ideal solution.
By understanding its mechanisms and choosing a model that meets your specific needs (flow rate, pressure, tank size, noise level, energy efficiency, and type of use), you're investing in lasting comfort and peace of mind. If you're looking for a booster pump and are unsure about which model to choose, remember that tools like online selection guides can help you find the perfect one.
If you have any questions or would like to order one of these pumps, please do not hesitate to contact us or consult our experts. The comfort of optimal water pressure is at your fingertips!