Gravity vs Pressurised Water System in Dublin – What You Need to Know
When it comes to home plumbing in Dublin, one question we hear all the time is: “Should I stick with a gravity-fed system or upgrade to a pressurised water system?” The truth is, both have their place—but the right choice really depends on your home, your water usage, and your long-term goals.
Here at Dublin Plumber 24hrs, we’ve been working with every type of system you can imagine. From old-school tanks in attics to modern combi boilers, we’ve seen it all across Dublin’s diverse homes.
So, in this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the gravity vs pressurised water system debate—clearly, simply, and with no jargon. Whether you live in a classic red-brick home in Rathmines or a new build in Clongriffin, this will help you make the right decision for your comfort, budget, and water pressure needs.
And if you’re still not sure what system you’re working with—or want to upgrade—we’re just a call away. Our emergency plumbers in Dublin are available 24/7.
What Is a Gravity-Fed Water System?
A gravity-fed water system is common in many older Dublin homes. It works by using gravity to move water from a cold water storage tank—usually located in the attic—down to taps and showers in the home. Hot water is typically stored in a cylinder on a lower floor.
How it works:
Cold water flows down from the tank using gravity.
The pressure depends on the height of the tank above the outlet.
The greater the height difference, the stronger the pressure—though it’s still relatively low compared to modern systems.
Pros of a gravity-fed system:
Simple and reliable.
No high mains pressure required.
Ideal for homes without combi boilers.
Cons:
Low water pressure, especially in upstairs bathrooms or showers.
Not suitable for modern power showers without additional pumps.
Can be slow to heat water, depending on the setup.
If your water pressure feels weak or your hot water runs out quickly, you’re likely working with a gravity system. It might be time to consider an upgrade.
What Is a Pressurised Water System?
A pressurised water system is fed directly from the mains, which means it delivers strong, consistent water pressure throughout the home—perfect for power showers, modern kitchens, and multiple bathrooms running at once.
There are two main types:
Unvented systems with hot water cylinders connected to the mains.
Combi boilers, which heat water on demand, also using mains pressure.
Pros of a pressurised system:
High, consistent water pressure.
No need for a cold water tank in the attic.
Great for modern plumbing fixtures and large families.
Cons:
More complex installation.
Higher upfront cost.
May require pressure-reducing valves in some areas.
Many newer Dublin homes already come fitted with pressurised systems. And for older homes, upgrading can make a dramatic difference in daily comfort. If you’re looking into this option, we also handle Gas boiler replacement in Dublin and system upgrades.
Gravity vs Pressurised Water System – Side-by-Side Comparison
To make things clearer, here’s a handy comparison chart that breaks down the key differences between a gravity vs pressurised water system in Dublin homes:
Feature |
Gravity-Fed System |
Pressurised Water System |
|---|---|---|
Water Pressure |
Low (depends on tank height) |
High (mains-fed) |
Hot Water Storage |
Hot water cylinder required |
On-demand or unvented cylinder |
Installation Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
Maintenance |
Easier to repair |
Needs professional service |
Ideal For |
Older Dublin homes |
Modern homes, high-demand usage |
Space Required |
Needs attic tank and cylinder |
No attic tank needed |
So, if you’re dealing with weak showers or inconsistent hot water, it might be time to switch. But before making any decisions, always consider your existing plumbing, household size, and water habits. Still unsure which system fits your home? Our Dublin emergency plumbers are happy to inspect and advise.
Which System Is Right for Your Dublin Home?
Choosing between a gravity vs pressurised water system really comes down to a few key questions:
✅ Do you have more than one bathroom?
✅ Is your current water pressure frustratingly low?
✅ Are you renovating or installing a new boiler?
✅ Do you have space for a cold water tank?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of these, it might be worth switching to a pressurised water system. It delivers consistent, powerful flow, especially when paired with a combi boiler or unvented cylinder.
But if your home has an older setup, or you’re looking to save on upfront costs, sticking with a gravity-fed system (with a few modern tweaks) could still be a good fit. In many cases, we can install booster pumps or upgrade your cylinder for better performance.
Whether you need a full system change or just a tweak, contact us for expert advice based on your home layout and goals.
Why It Matters: Comfort, Efficiency & Property Value
You might think the choice between a gravity vs pressurised water system is just about pressure—but it impacts so much more than that.
💧 Daily Comfort: No one enjoys a weak shower. A pressurised system ensures you get the flow rate you expect—no surprises when someone flushes the toilet.
⚡ Energy Efficiency: Pressurised systems, especially combi boilers, tend to be more energy-efficient since they only heat water when needed.
🏡 Resale Value: Modern buyers in Dublin expect reliable water pressure. An upgraded system can be a strong selling point if you’re putting your home on the market.
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Dublin—from Ballsbridge to Blanchardstown—upgrade their plumbing for comfort and efficiency.
Our Expert Advice at Dublin Plumber 24hrs
At Dublin Plumber 24hrs, we’ve spent over two decades helping homeowners across Dublin understand and upgrade their plumbing systems. We know the layout of Dublin homes inside out—from the Victorian terraces in Ranelagh to the sleek apartments in Sandyford.
When it comes to choosing between a gravity vs pressurised water system, we always start by assessing your current setup and your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—but there is a right system for your home.
Here’s how we help:
Fast diagnosis of low water pressure issues.
Full installation or upgrade of hot water systems.
Emergency callouts 24/7 if your tank bursts or boiler fails.
Final Thoughts: Gravity vs Pressurised Water System – Which Wins?
So, after everything we’ve covered, which is better: a gravity or pressurised water system?
It depends.
If you’re in an older property with low demand and want to keep things simple, a gravity-fed system might still work—with a few upgrades to keep things running smoothly.
But if you’re after high-pressure showers, quick hot water, and modern efficiency, a pressurised system is the future. It’s a smart long-term investment, especially if you’re renovating or planning to sell.
Either way, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team is here 24/7 to help you make the best call for your home, your budget, and your comfort.
FAQ: Gravity vs Pressurised Water System in Dublin
🔧 What’s the main difference between a gravity and pressurised water system?
A gravity system relies on tank height for pressure, while a pressurised system uses mains-fed water to deliver stronger, more consistent flow.
🚿 Can I upgrade from gravity to pressurised in my Dublin home?
Yes, absolutely. It usually involves removing the cold water tank, upgrading your hot water cylinder or installing a combi boiler, and possibly adjusting your pipework.
💡 Which system is more energy-efficient?
Pressurised systems, especially combi boilers, are typically more efficient because they only heat water on demand—no standing heat loss from stored tanks.
💧 Will switching systems improve my shower pressure?
Definitely. Many clients switch from gravity to pressurised water systems just to improve shower performance. We also offer booster solutions if a full system change isn’t possible.
🛠️ Can you help with urgent issues?
Of course. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Dublin—whether your tank is leaking or your pressure has suddenly dropped, we’re ready to help.