Behind the Barriers – Blog

Struggling with Low Water Pressure?

If turning on the tap or stepping into the shower feels more like a dribble than a stream, you’re not alone. Low water pressure is one of the most common household plumbing complaints — and it’s often a sign that something more serious is happening in your system.

Here’s what you need to know if your home’s water flow just isn’t what it should be.

Why Is My Water Pressure So Low?

Water pressure problems aren’t just annoying — they can indicate leaks, blockages, or outdated infrastructure. Here are the most common causes we see when investigating low water pressure in homes:

Partially Blocked Pipes

Over time, mineral deposits (especially in older galvanized pipes), rust, or even debris from water main repairs can narrow the inside of your water pipes. The result? Less room for water to flow, and pressure that gradually drops over time.

If only one tap or outlet is affected, the issue may be local. But if it’s widespread, your whole plumbing system may need flushing or partial replacement.

Hidden Leaks in the System

A leaking pipe — whether underground or behind a wall — reduces the pressure delivered to your taps and showers. Even a small, slow leak can dramatically lower pressure throughout the home. In some cases, you might not see visible water, but you’ll notice:

Wet patches in the yard
Mould or damp smells inside
A higher-than-normal water bill

Faulty Pressure-Reducing Valve (PRV)

Most homes are fitted with a PRV to ensure water enters at a safe, steady pressure. But if the valve fails or is set too low, it can choke your entire system’s flow.

We often find valves that are worn out, stuck, or never properly calibrated — a simple adjustment or replacement can make a big difference.

Old or Undersized Piping

In older homes, the original plumbing might not be up to modern standards — especially when demand increases (e.g. renovations, new bathrooms, irrigation systems). Narrow or corroded pipes can’t keep up with household water usage, especially during peak times.

If you’re upgrading parts of your home, it’s often smart to upgrade your water main or internal supply lines at the same time.

Council Supply Pressure Issues

Sometimes the issue lies beyond your property line. If your neighbors are experiencing the same drop in pressure, the council’s main water supply may be the source of the problem. This can happen during maintenance, demand surges, or infrastructure faults.

In these cases, booster pumps or storage tanks may help regulate pressure at the property level.

Hear a Hissing Noise at Night?

If you’re hearing a quiet hissing or running water sound late at night — especially when no taps or appliances are running — it could be a sign of a leak on the main supply line to your house.

These types of leaks are often:

In main water supply lines running near the boundary
In external plumbing or isolated irrigation systems

If you’re hearing unexplained water sounds or pressure is dropping for no clear reason — it’s worth investigating before it becomes a major issue.

The Hidden Risks

While low water pressure might seem like just a minor inconvenience, it can actually be a warning sign of bigger problems and lead to serious consequences if left unresolved. Here are the key dangers and risks associated with low water pressure:

1. Hidden Leaks and Water Damage

Low water pressure can indicate an undetected leak, especially if it comes on suddenly. Leaking pipes — whether underground, in walls, or under floors — can lead to:

Structural damage to foundations or slab
Mould and mildew growth, creating health risks
Increased water bills over time
Soil erosion under driveways or garden beds

2. Backflow Contamination

In some cases, low water pressure can reduce the barrier between clean and contaminated water. This increases the risk of backflow, where dirty water from garden hoses, stormwater, or appliances is pulled into your clean water supply — especially if there’s a nearby break or pressure drop in the mains system.

3. Poor Appliance Performance

Many appliances rely on a minimum pressure to function correctly, including:

Hot water systems (especially instant gas systems)
Dishwashers and washing machines
Irrigation systems and garden taps

Low pressure can cause these systems to underperform or even shut down, which could lead to cold showers, incomplete cleaning, or damaged appliances.

4. Fire Safety System Failure (in larger homes or buildings)

If your home or property has a fire sprinkler or hose reel system, it relies on adequate water pressure to activate in an emergency. Low pressure could delay response time or reduce effectiveness — a serious concern in multi-story buildings or rural areas.

Bottom Line

Low water pressure is often more than a nuisance — it’s your plumbing system telling you something’s wrong. If you’re noticing persistent or sudden pressure drops, it’s worth getting it checked before it turns into a costly repair or health risk.

What We Recommend

If you’re experiencing consistently low water pressure outside — especially from garden taps, irrigation systems, or stormwater outlets — don’t ignore it. It’s often a sign of a deeper issue underground.

At Drainways, we offer:

Leak detection using advanced listening devices to locate underground water loss
Site inspections to check for crushed, blocked, or root-invaded external pipes
Assessment of stormwater system performance and surface water management
Advice on system upgrades, soak pit maintenance, or pipe replacements

Time to Stop Putting Up With Weak Water Flow?

Low pressure shouldn’t be your “new normal.” If showers are weak, your tap trickles, or the washing machine takes forever to fill, let’s get it sorted.

You can contact Drainways today to receive a professional assessment and find the right fix — with clear communication, upfront pricing, and no guesswork.