- HEP Plumbing
- Boost Flow Rates

Boost Flow Rates
Boost Flow Rates | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Harrogate
When the taps splutter or the morning shower turns into a trickle, Harrogate homeowners turn to HEP. Our seasoned plumbers specialise in revitalising tired pipework, replacing narrow, corroded sections with high-capacity, WRAS-approved materials that supercharge pressure without tearing up your kitchen floor. A no-obligation survey pinpoints the exact pinch points, and we schedule work around your diary—often completing domestic pipe upgrades in a single day.
From boutique hotels in the Montpellier Quarter to new builds on the town’s outskirts, every project receives the same meticulous care. We flush the system, test flow rates on the spot and leave the workspace spotless, all backed by a workmanship guarantee. Book today and feel the difference the moment you turn the tap.
FAQs
Why is the water flow rate in my Harrogate property low and how can pipe upgrades help?
Low flow can be caused by undersized pipework, internal corrosion, excessive limescale, or long, poorly routed runs that restrict pressure. By replacing old 15 mm or imperial-sized pipes with correctly sized 22 mm or 28 mm copper or high-performance multi-layer plastic, we reduce friction losses and allow more water to reach your outlets. In most cases, homeowners see an immediate increase in both flow rate and usable pressure at taps, showers and appliances once the upgraded pipework is commissioned.
What types of pipe upgrades do you provide in Harrogate?
We offer: 1) Main supply upgrades from the boundary stop-tap to the internal stopcock (often 25 mm MDPE). 2) Internal copper or MLCP distribution upgrades, upsizing key runs such as the boiler feed, unvented cylinder supply, kitchen cold and loft shower feeds. 3) Removal of galvanised or lead pipe. 4) Re-routing long or convoluted pipe runs to shorten distances and minimise bends. 5) Installation of pressure-boosting pumps and accumulators when mains pressure alone is insufficient. Each solution is tailored to the property’s layout and the target flow rate.
Will upgrading my pipework cause major disruption to my home or business?
We plan work in zones to keep water off for the shortest possible time. Where pipes are concealed, we use strategic access points or surface-mounted routes to avoid extensive chasing. For occupied homes we normally restore water every evening; for business premises we can schedule out-of-hours work. Our engineers protect floors and furnishings, and any wall or ceiling openings we create are left ready for your decorator or can be patched by our own finishing team on request.
Do I need permission or have to comply with any regulations?
Internal pipe upgrades fall under Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, which require proper materials, correct backflow protection and a competent installer. If we change the incoming supply pipe or fit an unvented cylinder, Building Regulations Part G apply and the work must be notified to Building Control or carried out by a plumber with a recognised Competent Persons Scheme such as CIPHE. We take care of all notifications and issue compliance certificates, so you have full peace of mind and paperwork for future property sales.
How much does a typical flow-boosting pipe upgrade cost in Harrogate?
Costs vary with property size and scope. As a guide: replacing a short internal run to a combi boiler starts around £350-£450; a complete two-bed terrace re-pipe averages £1,100-£1,600; and a four-bed detached home with incoming main upgrade can range from £2,000-£3,500. We provide a fixed, itemised quote after a free on-site survey, and can phase larger projects to spread the investment. All work is backed by a minimum 12-month workmanship guarantee and manufacturer warranties on materials.
How long will the upgrade take and which areas of Harrogate do you cover?
Most single-run upgrades are completed in half a day, while whole-house re-pipes usually take two to four days depending on access and floor construction. We serve the entire Harrogate district, including Knaresborough, Pannal, Ripley, Starbeck, Killinghall, and surrounding villages. Emergency slots are often available within 24 hours, and planned projects can usually be scheduled within two weeks during off-peak seasons.