Low water pressure can turn your morning shower into a frustrating start to the day. After 38 years of fixing pressure problems across Perth, I’ve seen how even small issues can affect your whole home’s water supply. Let me share what you need to know about water pressure problems and their solutions.
Pro Tip: Before calling a plumber, check if your neighbors are experiencing similar pressure issues. This quick check helps determine if it’s a local supply problem or specific to your home.
Understanding your home’s water pressure doesn’t need to be complicated. Think of your plumbing system like your garden hose – kinks, blockages, or a partially closed tap all reduce water flow. Your home’s plumbing works the same way, just on a larger scale.
Most Perth homes should have water pressure between 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch) for optimal performance. If your pressure drops below 35 psi, you’ll notice problems with everyday tasks like:
- Weak showers
- Slow-filling toilets
- Poor dishwasher performance
- Struggling washing machines
A Quick Test: Turn on your outside tap fully. If you get strong flow there but weak pressure inside, you likely have an internal plumbing issue. If both are weak, the problem might be with your water supply.
Common Pressure Problems and Solutions
Over my years of servicing Perth homes, I’ve found that most pressure problems come down to a few common causes. Sometimes the fix is simple – other times we need to dig a bit deeper. Let’s look at what might be causing your pressure problems.
Blocked Pipes: Think of your pipes like the arteries in your body – they can gradually narrow over time. Perth’s water contains minerals that can build up inside your pipes, slowly reducing water flow. You might notice this as gradually decreasing pressure over months or years.
Pro Tip: Run your cold water for a minute and check its color. If it starts brownish and clears up, you might have internal pipe corrosion.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Water pressure that’s gotten worse over time
- Different pressure at different taps
- Gurgling or whistling sounds from pipes
- Better pressure on ground floor than upstairs
Water Meter and Valve Issues: Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize – sometimes the solution is as simple as checking your water meter valve. After maintenance work or renovations, these valves occasionally get left partially closed.
Quick Check: Find your water meter (usually near your property boundary) and look for the valve handle. Make sure it’s fully open – but don’t force it. If you’re unsure, we can help with a professional check.
Aging Pipes and Corrosion: Older homes often face pressure problems due to aging pipes. Over time, corrosion can roughen pipe surfaces and create restrictions. This is especially common in homes with galvanized steel pipes.
Warning signs of pipe age issues:
- Rusty water when first turning on taps
- Multiple small leaks developing
- Decreasing pressure over years
- Uneven water flow throughout house
Pro Tip: If your home is more than 25 years old and still has original plumbing, it’s worth getting a professional assessment of your pipe condition.
Professional Solutions That Last
Sometimes a simple fix will solve your pressure problems. Other times, you might need a more comprehensive solution. Here’s what we typically recommend based on the specific issue:
Pipe Cleaning: Professional pipe cleaning can remove years of buildup without damaging your pipes. We use several methods depending on your specific situation:
- High-pressure water jetting
- Chemical cleaning for mineral deposits
- Mechanical cleaning for tough blockages
Pro Tip: Regular maintenance cleaning every few years can prevent pressure problems from developing in the first place.
Pressure Pump Solutions: For some homes, especially those in areas with naturally low water pressure, a pressure pump might be the answer. These systems actively maintain consistent pressure throughout your home.
Before installing a pump, we consider:
- Your typical water usage patterns
- Property size and layout
- Current pressure levels
- Energy efficiency needs
System Upgrades: Sometimes older plumbing needs strategic upgrading to maintain proper pressure. This doesn’t always mean replacing everything – often, updating key sections can make a big difference.
Smart Prevention Tips:
- Check visible pipes regularly for signs of corrosion
- Listen for unusual pipe sounds
- Monitor your water pressure seasonally
- Keep an eye on water clarity
- Track any pressure changes
When to Call a Professional
While some pressure issues have simple fixes, others need professional attention. Here’s when to give us a call:
- Sudden pressure drops
- Consistent pressure problems
- Multiple fixture issues
- Unusual pipe noises
- Visible pipe damage
Emergency Tip: Know where your main water shut-off valve is located. In case of a serious problem, being able to quickly shut off your water can prevent property damage.
Our Professional Approach
At Plumb It Right, we take a systematic approach to solving pressure problems. We’ll check your entire system to find not just the immediate issue, but any potential future problems too. Best of all, we don’t charge call-out fees, and we’ll give you clear pricing upfront.
We service homes across Perth’s metropolitan area right up to Lancelin. Whether you need a quick pressure check or a complete system assessment, we’re here to help get your water flowing properly again.
Remember, addressing pressure problems early often prevents more expensive repairs later. If you’re concerned about your water pressure, give us a call. We’ll help you understand what’s happening and find the most effective solution for your home.
Pro Tip: Keep our number handy – sometimes pressure problems can develop suddenly, and having a reliable plumber’s contact ready can save you stress when issues arise.