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Higher water pressure generally makes for more enjoyable showers, although it also accounts for an increase in your water bill!

However, just because the water company can supply water at very high pressure, it doesn’t mean that you need to have the water pressure this high in your home.

The average water pressure in Australia is 40-45psi. However, this figure is not set in stone, it can rise to as much as 60psi. Unfortunately, when the water pressure is too high there are a number of issues you may face:

  • Water Hammer

A banging in your pipes is generally the result of excess water pressure. Shutting a valve results in a backflow of pressure, which meets the incoming supply, and causes the pipes to shake. They bang against their fittings or surroundings and dramatically increase the likelihood of a joint blowing.

  • Appliance Life

When the water pressure is too high your appliance has to work harder to do its job. This effectively shortens its life, leaving you with the expensive job of purchasing a new appliance.

  • Leaking Taps

If your taps leak and you seem unable to stop it from happening then it is possible the water pressure is set too high. The sheer pressure of the water is forcing little bits of water past the joins.

  • Running Toilet

The same principle can make the toilet run, as water is forced past the diaphragm and into the bowl. This commonly happens at night when it has been used for a while.

What To Do

If you think you have any of the above issues it’s a good idea to get hold of your plumber Sydney as soon as possible. They can assess the issue and help you rectify it quickly and efficiently.

Even if you don’t have an issue yet, it’s a good idea to purchase your own water pressure gauge, these can be had for as little as $20.

It’s a good idea to test your water pressure several times over several days. The highest water pressure is likely to be around 2 am, this is when the fewest amount of people will be demanding water from the system.

If your pressure is constantly over 50psi then you need to take remedial action.

Getting The Pressure Right

You now need to decide what pressure suits you best. In fact, this is a matter of personal preference. The lower the water pressure the less water you’ll use and the cheaper your energy bills. However, the higher the water pressure the more enjoyable some activities will be, such as showering.

You need to find the right balance. But, before this, you need to fit a pressure regulation valve. This should allow you to change the water pressure between 24psi and 70psi. The best approach is to start low and turn it up until you’re happy with the result.

It is a case of trial and error but the result is worthwhile.