Water pressure from height calculator
The calculator needs JavaScript. The worked example, formula and figures below show exactly how it works, so you can do the sum yourself. A guide, not advice. Check your supplier's or maker's figures before ordering.
Short answer
Worked example
| You enter | Value |
|---|---|
| Work out | Pressure from height |
| Height of the water surface above the outlet | 10 m |
10.00 m of head = 0.981 bar (static)
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Static pressure | 0.981 bar |
| In kilopascals | 98.1 kPa |
| Head | 10 m |
Show the working
- Pressure: 10 m × 0.0981 = 0.981 bar
- In kPa: 0.981 × 100 = 98.1 kPa
How it works
- Pressure (bar) = head (m) × 0.0981
- Head (m) = pressure (bar) ÷ 0.0981
- 1 bar = 100 kPa
This is the static pressure with nothing running; the pressure at the outlet drops when water flows.
Whether a gravity shower needs a pump depends on the shower: compare with the maker's minimum head or pressure.
Our default (adjustable)
These are typical planning figures and our own allowances, not facts about your product. Change any of them in the calculator to match your bag, pack or tin.
This calculator has no built-in defaults: every figure comes from you or your product's data.
Regulations and standards
- Shower and pump makers' installation instructions (minimum head or pressure)
Explained: Approved Document G (hot water safety).
The physics is the same everywhere; water fittings rules differ by nation.