What flexible hose with showerhead using roof tank hot water?

[keithd]

I have a hot water system old style in my roof space delivering hot water at gravitational (low) pressure to a fixed low pressure shower head. I now have a need for a flexible hose/shower head combination to assist a family member on a shower chair. I know that commonly the handheld showerhead units available today run only on supply (high) pressure water hot or cold because of an internal flow restrictor. Is there any low pressure unit or other solution available?

[JacobZ]

Hi @keithd,

Thank you for your question.

Unfortunately, I am not aware of any showerhead products that are designed to be gravity-fed. 

The only solution I can think of to fix the problem is to include a pump in the line to increase the pressure so you can use a standard showerhead.

It seems likely that you will need to speak with a plumber for their advice on this one.

Allow me to tag @Noyade, @Nailbag and @Dave-1 to see if they can help with a solution.

Sorry, I couldn't be more assistance.

Jacob

[Noyade]

Hello @keithd 

Sorry, I have nothing positive to contribute - but you've jogged memories.

I grew up in a house built by my father who was a carpenter/builder. We had a gravity fed tank and the water was heated by a wood-fired stove. In other words, that fire had to persist during summer - if you wanted hot water.

I showered him a couple of times when he was dying with a flexible hose and the pressure was awful - I kinda cursed him under my breath for persisting with this system up to the year 2000.

When he died the first thing my mother did was call a plumber and install an off-peak mains pressure electric hot water tank.

I'm with @JacobZ  - call a plumber and seek their advice. Maybe there is even some sort of Davco on line pressure pump available for your situation? I don't know.

Cheers and good luck!

[EricL]

Hi @keithd 

The majority of shower fittings are now Well's rated which means that they will only put out a maximum of 9 litres a minute regardless of the type of hose or head you purchase. I agree with @JacobZ and @Noyade in regards to getting a pump and a licensed plumber to install it. It is a worthwhile investment and will make a world of difference in your showering experience.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @keithd 

I would look at adapting a clamping style outdoor shower. many of these are designed for low-pressure draw from a source to a high-output flexible shower head. Something like this for example.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Evening @keithd 

I am also suggesting to have a chat with a plumber. I know rules have changed with the temperture hot water can be heated to and in my head that also means that the pressure could also have been changed (rule wise) A plumber will know for sure in your area.

Dave