Why is my water pressure low?

Understanding Low Water Pressure and the Impact of High Pressure Systems

Experiencing low water pressure at home? There are several possible reasons behind it. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a partially closed shut-off valve or a clogged faucet aerator. However, more serious causes can include blocked or leaking pipes, or even faults in your irrigation system. If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your water bill, it could be a sign of a hidden leak. Don’t wait—reach out to our team to pinpoint and resolve the issue before it worsens.

High Water Pressure, Water Hammer & Plumbing Standards

In many homes throughout Sydney, water is delivered from the mains at particularly high pressure. While this can be handy—like when using a garden hose to rinse the car—it often leads to several problems, both obvious and hidden.

One of the more noticeable issues is water hammer, the loud banging noise that occurs when water flow is abruptly stopped. On the quieter side, excessive pressure can shorten the lifespan of your hot water system and other fixtures. You might also encounter issues like hoses that constantly burst their fittings, taps that won’t close properly, or irrigation systems that just can’t handle the stress.

For long-term protection and optimal performance, your home plumbing should comply with pressure guidelines outlined in the plumbing code. Our experienced plumbers can assess your system and recommend solutions, like pressure-reducing valves, to prevent damage and keep things running smoothly.

Since the year 2003, the Plumbing Code of Australia (AS3500:2003) has stated that the water pressure in any building must not exceed 500kPa.

The Hidden Impact of High Water Pressure and Water Hammer

Water hammer is a common issue for many homes across Sydney, and for good reason. A lot of these properties were built before modern plumbing regulations were introduced—and many are connected to street mains that deliver water at pressures well over 500kPa.

In an attempt to quiet the banging, some homeowners install water hammer arrestors on washing machine taps or other fixtures. While this may offer some relief, it rarely solves the real issue: excessive water pressure. In fact, most arrestors do little to fix water hammer and do nothing to reduce pressure throughout the rest of the system.

Here’s why high pressure is a bigger problem than it seems:A tap receiving water at 500kPa needs an equal amount of force to seal properly. Raise that to 750kPa, and you’re asking the same tap to do 50% more work just to shut off. The result? Faster wear, more frequent failures, and stiff, hard-to-turn taps. It’s not just a maintenance issue—it’s a daily inconvenience.

The Right Solution: Pressure Limiting Valve (PRV)

To properly manage high water pressure, the best fix is to install a pressure reducing valve (PRV). This is not to be confused with a pressure limiting valve (PLV), which serves a different purpose and isn’t suitable for controlling pressure across an entire household system.

A PRV regulates your home’s water pressure to a safer, more manageable level—ideally below 500kPa. When installed correctly and paired with sound plumbing, this not only eliminates water hammer but also helps prevent leaky fittings, eases the strain on appliances, and makes taps and showers much easier to use.

If you’re hearing thuds in the pipes, battling stiff taps, or dealing with persistent leaks, call our team. We’ll identify the issue, give you an obligation-free quote, and get your plumbing back to smooth and silent operation.