[remodguy]

I have a two story house with 3/4" pex main lines in the basement that join to 1/2" lines to the second level. I am considering a shower system in the master bath that would include a single shower head and 4 body sprays. I have 2 water heaters, both are 50 gallon, that run in tandem (one flows into the other).

My question is this; is there enough pressure to run the shower system?

[massplumber2008]

Hey Remod. Guy:

I'm not sure about your pressure... you would have to test that by checking it yourself using a simple test gauge that is sold at your local home depot or Lowe's (see picture below.. attaches to outside faucet). I'm betting your pressure is somewhere between 40-60 PSI.. and that should be all you need for the body sprays... but you will still need to check against the manufacturer's information when you decide exactly which 4 body spray valve you will use.

The real issue for you here, is the VOLUME of water available. I'm sorry to say, but the size of those pex lines will not deliver enough water volume to get much use out of the multi. Head systems they make today.

I would recommend running new 3/4" pex as a minimum upstairs, purchase a 3/4" tapped shower valve and 3/4" volume control and that should get you where you want to go.

Let me know if you have more questions... glad to help.

MARK

[Milo Dolezal]

Agree with Mark: I think you are trying to figure out whether you have enough volume, no pressure. Volume is always an issue in body spray installations.

In any case, body sprays have to be plumbed in certain way (loop) so they function properly. You should have 3/4" pipe leading to your shower - but I have to admit, I have seen it installed on 1/2" supplies ( Ariel showers, Grohe body sprays, Kohler, HansGrohe sprays... etc... - all latest models units)