Why High Water Pressure Is Not Good
Understanding High Water Pressure
High water pressure may seem like a good thing, as having a strong water flow for showers and taps is important. However, excessive water pressure can lead to various issues that can cause damage to your plumbing system.
What is Considered High Water Pressure?
The Australian standard for household water pressure sits at 500 kPa.
AS/NZS 3500.1:2003, Plumbing and Drainage – Water Services, the relevant clause is 3.3.4 which states, “Maximum pressure within buildings – Provision shall be made to ensure that the maximum operating pressure at any outlet, other than a fire service outlet, within a building does not exceed 500 kPa.”
If you like reading, you can read more about the Qld and National Plumbing Regulations
If your water pressure sits close to 500 kPa, that’s ideal service. When the water pressure exceeds this range, it can put stress on your plumbing system and lead to a range of problems and even lead to your insurance cover being void if you have a burst water pipe or water leak.
The Causes of High Water Pressure
There are several factors that can contribute to high water pressure in a home. Understanding these causes can help you identify and address the issue. Some common causes of high water pressure include:
- Municipal Water Supply: In some cases, high water pressure may be the result of elevated water pressure from the municipal supply. This can occur if the water utility company operates at high pressure levels to ensure an adequate supply to all homes in the area.
- Water Pressure Regulator: A faulty or improperly adjusted water pressure regulator can also lead to high water pressure. The water pressure regulator is a valve that controls the pressure of water entering your home from the main supply line. If it malfunctions or is set too high, it can result in excessive water pressure.
- Elevation and Gravity: The elevation of your home compared to the water source can also impact water pressure. Homes at higher elevations may experience higher water pressure due to the force of gravity pushing the water downward.
- Water Hammer: Water hammer occurs when the flow of water is suddenly stopped or changed direction, causing a shockwave through the pipes. This can lead to a temporary spike in water pressure, which can be damaging to the plumbing system if it occurs frequently.
To determine if you have high water pressure, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms. Keep an eye out for signs such as noisy pipes, leaking taps, and rapid wear and tear on your plumbing system.

The Negative Effects of High Water Pressure
While it may seem counterintuitive, high water pressure in homes can lead to a range of negative effects. You may want to liken it to our bodies when we have high blood pressure. The high pressure puts a strain on our systems and eventually it leads to a tear or a leak in our blood vessels and this is similar for our homes plumbing.
Damage to Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances
Excessively high water pressure can cause damage to your plumbing fixtures and appliances. The intense force of the water can put strain on the connections, joints, and seals, leading to leaks, cracks, or even complete failure of these components. Taps, shower heads, and toilet valves are particularly vulnerable to damage under high pressure.
To prevent damage, it’s important to ensure that your plumbing fixtures are designed to handle the specific water pressure in your home. Consider installing pressure-regulating devices or seeking professional plumbing services to assess and adjust the water pressure accordingly.
Increased Risk of Leaks and Burst Pipes
High water pressure significantly increases the risk of leaks and burst pipes in your plumbing system. The excessive force exerted by the water can cause weak points in the pipes to rupture, leading to water damage and potential flooding in your home. This can be the main reason why a flexi hose can burst. When these hoses burst, the water damage that occurs is immense.
Persistent leaks not only waste water but can also cause structural damage and contribute to the growth of mould and mildew. It is essential to address any signs of leaks promptly to prevent further damage. Read more about water leaks here.

Wasted Water and Higher Utility Bills
One of the most noticeable effects of high water pressure is the wastage of water. Excess pressure can causes water to flow at a faster rate than necessary, resulting in unnecessary water consumption. This not only increases your utility bills but also puts a strain on limited water supplies as we head into a hot and dry summer in Brisbane.
To conserve water and reduce your utility bills, it is important to address high water pressure. Installing a pressure reducing valve (PRV) can help regulate the water pressure, ensuring that it remains within an acceptable range.
Monitoring and maintaining a proper water pressure level is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing fixtures and appliances.
Signs of High Water Pressure
High water pressure in your home can have detrimental effects on your plumbing system and fixtures. It’s important to be aware of the signs that may indicate high water pressure so that you can take appropriate measures to address the issue. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
Noisy Pipes and Plumbing Fixtures
If you hear banging or vibrating noises coming from your pipes or plumbing fixtures, it could be a sign of high water pressure. This phenomenon, known as water hammer, occurs when the force of the water flowing through the pipes is too strong. The sudden stoppage of water flow can cause the pipes to shake, resulting in loud noises. If you notice this symptom, it’s advisable to have your water pressure checked by a professional plumber.
Leaking Taps and Showerheads
Another telltale sign of high water pressure is the presence of leaking taps and leaking shower heads. The excessive pressure can put strain on the seals and joints of these fixtures, causing them to leak. Even a small drip may seem insignificant, but it can waste a significant amount of water over time and lead to higher utility bills.
Read more about leaking showers here.

Rapid Wear and Tear on Plumbing System
High water pressure can cause accelerated wear and tear on your plumbing system and appliances. The excessive force exerted by the water can weaken pipes, fittings, and valves over time. If you look at the warranty on most of the plumbing fittings, they will mention high water pressure is a reason why a claim can be knocked back.
This can result in leaks, bursts, and other plumbing emergencies. If you notice an increase in plumbing issues such as frequent leaks, or damage to appliances connected to the water supply.
Appliances to consider are dishwahers, washing machines, hot water services and plumbed in refrigerators and mixer taps.
If your dishwasher or washing machine is unusually loud, high water pressure could be the reason. Excess water pressure can damage the mechanisms in the appliance and many appliance warranties have void clauses for high water pressure damage.

Diagnosing and Measuring Water Pressure
To address the issue of high water pressure in your home, it is important to first diagnose and measure the water pressure accurately. This will help you determine the severity of the problem and take appropriate measures to rectify it. In this section, we will discuss two methods for diagnosing and measuring water pressure: using a pressure gauge and seeking professional help.
Using a Pressure Gauge
One way to measure the water pressure in your home is by using a pressure gauge. These gauges are readily available and can be easily attached to a hose bib or an outdoor tap
Here’s a step-by-step guide on using a pressure gauge:
- Begin by ensuring that all water-using appliances and fixtures in your home are turned off.
- Locate an outdoor faucet or hose bib where you can attach the pressure gauge.
- Remove any attachments or accessories from the faucet.
- Attach the pressure gauge securely to the tap.
- Slowly open the tap completely and allow the water to flow freely.
- Read the pressure displayed on the gauge.
Remember to take multiple readings at different times to get an accurate average pressure. If the pressure consistently exceeds the recommended levels, it may indicate a high water pressure issue.
Seeking Professional Help From A Plumber
If you are unsure about measuring the water pressure yourself or suspect that there may be underlying issues contributing to the high water pressure, Downie Plumbing and Gas can come and do a water pressure audit for you as well as checking for damage to your flexi pipes, as these can be the first thing to fail with high pressure issues.
By diagnosing and measuring the water pressure accurately you can gain valuable insights into water pressure problems in your home. And having Low water pressure can be also be a problem and why it needs to be addressed. Read more about low water pressure here.
Managing High Water Pressure
If you’re experiencing high water pressure in your home, it’s important to take action to prevent potential damage. Here are some effective ways to manage high water pressure:
Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve
One of the most common and effective solutions for managing high water pressure is to install a pressure reducing valve (PRV). A PRV is a device that regulates the water pressure entering your home from the main water supply. It works by reducing the high pressure to a safe and manageable level. By installing a PRV, you can protect your plumbing fixtures, appliances, and pipes from the excessive strain caused by high water pressure.
Most homes and buildings that have been built after 2003 have pressure reduction valves installed at the water meter. But like all valves, they do need re calibration.
If your home was built before 2003, you may not have a PRV installed which means your water pressure will fluctuate.

Seeking Professional Plumbing Services
When dealing with and water pressure concerns, you will need to call in a plumber.
They have the knowledge, experience, and tools to accurately diagnose the problem and implement the appropriate solutions.
Downie Plumbing and Gas can measure your water pressure, identify the underlying causes of water pressure problems and advise you on the most suitable course of action.
By taking proactive steps to manage high water pressure, you can protect your home from potential damage and ensure the longevity of your plumbing system.
Installing a pressure reducing valve, conducting regular maintenance and inspections, and seeking professional plumbing services are all important aspects of effective high water pressure management.
Get in touch with Downie Plumbing and Gas on – 0411 780 698