How to Fix a Shower Pump
Last updated: 30 September 2026
Check the power supply, check for airlocks, check the filters, and replace the pump if faulty.
Overview
A faulty shower pump can reduce water pressure or fail completely. This guide covers diagnosing and fixing a shower pump.
Step-by-Step Fix
Before beginning any repair, ensure you have isolated power or water supplies. Clear your workspace, gather standard hand tools, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Turn off the power to the shower pump at the fused spur or the consumer unit. Turn off the water supply at the isolation valves. Place a towel under the pump to catch any water. Shower pumps should never be worked on with the power on.
- Check that the pump is receiving power. Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the pump terminals. If there is no voltage the fault is likely with the fused spur or the wiring and not the pump itself.
- Listen to the pump when the shower is turned on. A working pump hums steadily. If the pump is very noisy it may have air trapped inside or the bearings may be worn. If the pump is silent it may have failed or the flow switch may be faulty.
- Check for airlocks in the system. Air trapped in the pump will prevent it from operating efficiently. Turn off the shower and open the pump bleed screw if there is one. Allow air to escape until water flows steadily.
- Check the inlet filters which are usually located where the hot and cold supplies enter the pump. These filters can become clogged with limescale and debris restricting flow. Turn off the water remove the filters and clean them in vinegar.
- If the pump is running but the pressure is low the impellers may be worn or the pump may be undersized for the shower. In this case you may need to replace the pump with a higher capacity model.
- If the pump is not running at all and there is power at the terminals the pump motor has likely failed. Replacement is usually more cost effective than repair for domestic shower pumps.
- Install a new pump of the same or higher specification. Connect the hot and cold supplies then the outlet to the shower. Connect the power following the manufacturer instructions. Restore the water supply and test the shower.
- If you are unsure about any step or if the installation involves electrical work that you are not comfortable with call a qualified plumber or electrician. Shower pumps combine water and electricity so errors can be dangerous.
Common Symptoms & Diagnostic Resolutions
Review the common error codes and operating symptoms below to quickly identify the root cause of the fault before ordering replacement parts.
| Symptom / Code | Likely Root Cause | Recommended Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump not running | No power or failed motor | Check for power at the pump terminals. If power is present the motor has failed and the pump needs replacing. |
| Pump very noisy | Air in the pump or worn bearings | Bleed the pump to remove air. If the noise persists the bearings are worn and the pump should be replaced. |
| Low pressure from shower | Clogged filters or worn impellers | Clean the inlet filters with vinegar. If pressure is still low the impellers may be worn and the pump may need replacing. |
| Pump runs continuously | Flow switch stuck or faulty | Turn off the power and check the flow switch. If it is stuck free it. If it is faulty replace the switch or the pump. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my shower pump is broken?
Signs of a broken pump include no water pressure a pump that is silent when the shower is turned on a pump that runs continuously or a pump that is very noisy. Check the power supply and filters before assuming the pump has failed.
Can I replace a shower pump myself?
Yes if you are confident with basic plumbing and electrical work. Turn off the water and power disconnect the old pump and install the new one following the manufacturer instructions. If unsure call a plumber.
How much does a shower pump cost?
A new shower pump costs between one hundred and three hundred pounds depending on the make model and flow rate. Installation by a plumber costs an additional eighty to one hundred and fifty pounds.
Why does my shower pump keep cutting out?
Shower pumps cut out due to overheating low water flow or a faulty flow switch. Check that the water supply is not restricted and that the filters are clean. If the pump still cuts out the flow switch may be faulty.