If you’re using rainwater for your home or garden, a house pressure pump (also called a water tank pump) is essential. It draws water from your tank and delivers it under pressure to your taps, showers, toilets, washing machine, and garden hoses.
But with so many options available, how do you know which pump is right for you? Choosing the correct pump will ensure you have steady water pressure, reliable performance, and lower running costs. Here are the key things to consider before buying.
1. Distance from Tank to Outlet
The further the water has to travel, the more powerful your pump needs to be. Measure the distance from your tank to the furthest tap or outlet. Longer distances require a stronger pump to maintain good pressure.
2. Height of Your Outlets
Water needs extra power to move uphill. In a single-storey home, the highest outlet is usually the shower head, around 1.8 metres high. In a two-storey home, it could be 5 metres or more. Add this vertical lift to your calculations, as pumps must work harder against gravity.
3. How Much Water You’ll Use at Once
Think about how many taps or appliances might be running at the same time. For example:
- A shower may use around 12 litres per minute (L/min)
- A garden tap may use 12 L/min
- A toilet flush may use 5 L/min
If all three are used together, you’ll need a pump that can deliver at least 29 L/min.
4. Water Pressure Needs
Not all water uses require the same pressure. Washing machines and toilets can cope with lower flow, but for a strong shower or watering the garden, you’ll want higher pressure. Choose a pump that matches your preferred water experience.
5. Noise Levels
Some pumps can be noisy, which may be an issue if they’re close to your home. To reduce noise, you can:
- Add a pressure tank (reduces how often the pump switches on)
- Use a pump cover (protects and muffles sound)
- Consider a submersible pump (sits inside the tank and runs quietly)
6. Energy Efficiency
Bigger isn’t always better. A pump that’s too large for your needs will waste energy and increase your power bills. Look for energy-saving models and consider adding a pressure tank to reduce pump cycling.
7. Extra Features to Consider
Depending on your setup, you might also look at:
- Variable speed pumps – adjust flow automatically for consistent pressure
- Rain-to-mains systems – switch between tank water and mains water
- Multistage pumps – quieter and more efficient for larger homes
Recommended Pumps for Australian Homes
At Water Tanks Direct, we recommend two popular ranges of REEFE pumps that suit most households:
REEFE PRJ Jet Series
- Ideal for small to medium homes
- Energy-efficient and reliable
- Available in different sizes to match your water needs
- Great value for money
Best for: Homeowners wanting a dependable, budget-friendly pump for everyday use.
REEFE PRM Multistage Series
- Quieter operation — perfect if the pump is near living areas or bedrooms
- Can service more outlets at once, making them ideal for larger families
- Provides smoother, more consistent water pressure
- Excellent for rainwater tank setups
Best for: Larger homes, families with higher water demand, or anyone wanting a quieter pump.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right house pressure pump comes down to your home’s size, water usage, and comfort preferences. By considering distance, height, flow rate, noise, and efficiency, you’ll find a pump that delivers reliable water pressure without wasting energy.
If you’re unsure which pump is best for your setup, our team at Water Tanks Direct is here to help you make the right choice.