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How to choose the right pressure water pump

Sådan vælger du den rigtige trykvandspumpe
Guide to water on board

How to choose the right pressurised water pump

I recommend a pressurised water pump if you want stable water pressure at the galley sink, washbasin and shower on board. This guide will help you quickly choose the right size, pressure and setup for your boat.

Quick guide

1–2 people: typically choose a pump rated at approx. 7–10 L/min
2–4 people: typically choose a pump rated at approx. 10–15 L/min
Shower or multiple outlets: typically choose a pump rated at approx. 15–20+ L/min

What is a pressurised water pump?

A pressurised water pump gives you running water on your boat without having to pump it manually. It starts automatically when you turn on the tap and stops again once the desired pressure has been reached.

This makes it a much more convenient solution for the galley, washbasin and shower—and makes having water on board feel more like home.

1. Choose based on how much water you need

The first thing I consider is how much water is realistically needed at a time. Capacity is usually specified in litres per minute.

7–10 L/min → for smaller boats, a single outlet or light use
10–15 L/min → a good all-round choice for most boats
15–20+ L/min → for greater comfort, multiple outlets or more demanding use

2. Don’t just look at litres per minute—pressure matters too

Many people only look at capacity, but pressure makes a big difference to how the water feels in use, especially if you want a good shower.

  • Approx. 2–3 bar: fine for everyday use
  • Approx. 3–5 bar: greater comfort and a stronger water jet

3. Consider how many outlets the pump needs to supply

It makes a difference whether the pump only needs to supply one tap or also needs to supply the washbasin, galley and shower.

  • 1 outlet: a smaller pump may often be enough
  • 2–3 outlets: choose a more versatile model
  • Shower and multiple outlets: go for higher capacity and pressure

4. Choose the right voltage: 12V or 24V

Naturally, the pump must be compatible with your boat’s electrical system.

  • 12V: suitable for most boats and smaller installations
  • 24V: typically used in larger or more demanding systems

5. A good installation matters more than many people think

Even a good pump can perform poorly if the rest of the installation isn’t right. That’s why I always recommend thinking of the pump as part of the whole system.

Water tank
Filter before the pump
Pressurised water pump
Optional pressure/accumulator tank
Correct hoses and fittings

Common mistakes I recommend avoiding

  • Choosing a pump that is too small for your needs
  • Focusing only on L/min and forgetting about pressure
  • Not installing a filter before the pump
  • Using hoses that are too small or the wrong size
  • Poor installation that causes unnecessary noise and vibration

Typical options I recommend

For a smaller setup

Suitable for smaller boats, light use or a single outlet.

Typically 7–10 L/min

For everyday comfort

A good all-round choice for the galley, washbasin and everyday use on board.

Typically 10–15 L/min

For a shower and greater needs

For those who want greater comfort, higher pressure or multiple outlets.

Typically 15–20+ L/min

Browse relevant products

To see the options straight away, go directly to my products here:

Not sure what’s right for you?

If you’re unsure which pressurised water pump to choose, that’s perfectly normal. I’m happy to help you find a solution that suits your boat, water consumption and desired level of comfort on board.