Weaker showers were an unexpected development for a homeowner following a water heater replacement. The household had switched from gas to a heat pump.
While the timing pointed to the new heater, their plumber suspected that pressure regulation added during installation could explain the difference.
Here's what to know
In a post on Reddit's r/HeatPumps community, the homeowner described the problem and asked whether others had run into the same issue.
"We replaced our gas hot water system with a heat pump, and ever since, the shower seems to have noticeably lower pressure," the original poster wrote.
Pressure controls added during installation were one possible explanation. The plumber suggested they could be set at 72.5 psi (500 kilopascals) on both water supplies. An inspection had already ruled out a blockage or fault in the tempering valve.
The homeowner wanted to know whether the showers could be fixed, noting the old system may have run at a higher pressure.
Heat pump water heaters can help households save money by moving heat from the outside into the water rather than generating all of that heat directly.
More background
An unregulated water supply versus a newly installed 72.5 psi (500 kPa) pressure-reducing valve on both lines was the key difference in another account. That commenter said their parents experienced a similar pressure drop when a heat pump water heater replaced their gas tank.
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Supply, pipe, or pump problems were among the possibilities raised by a heat pump water heater owner. Some distinguished the appliance itself from changes to the plumbing around it.
What can be done?
One suggestion to raise to the plumber was to check that the supply valves were fully open. Other commenters focused on looking for debris in the showerhead or shower valve cartridge after the plumbing work.
An outdoor hose connection was another place to check. One commenter recommended measuring pressure there before making changes. Asking the installer which pressure-regulating components were added and what settings the tank requires would directly address the plumber's suspected cause.
"Have you pulled the shower head and check for debris in the aerator?" another commenter asked, adding, "Common issues when the system is opened."
For households weighing utility costs alongside shower comfort, Cala offers configurable smart heat pump water heaters. Matching water heating schedules to household demand can help reduce energy use and bills by planning heating around when hot water is needed. A Cala system can not only save you money, but the right installer can also help ensure that you'll have no issues with water pressure.
Where can I learn more?
Other homeowners have run into shower and plumbing problems after water heating upgrades or repairs.
• A U.K. homeowner received conflicting heat pump advice before a plumber found a simple shower fix.
• Another U.K. homeowner's taps worsened after installation of a loft cylinder, prompting concerns.
• A homeowner facing water heater replacement advice was urged to check the pressure first.
• A U.K. first-time buyer had no hot water, and a plumber suggested checking the heat pump.
• After repairs to a soaked electric water heater, a homeowner's hot showers lasted two minutes.
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