Low water pressure at outlets

Causes

Toby is not fully open

Build-up of deposits in old pipes resulting in a reduced bore size

A leak in the supply pipe

Worn pump if water supply is via a pumped system

Old system with limited water head (typically a header tank within the roof space) 

Common

Listed under: plumbing, pipes, Services

Cause

Toby is not fully open

Repair

  • check the toby to ensure it is fully open. A toby is a valve that allows the water to your home to be closed off. For houses it will usually be in the ground close to the front boundary, protected by a metal or blue or black plastic cover. Newer models can be turned on or off by hand, but a few older models use a metal handle. Each property typically has its own toby. In townhouses the toby may be located adjacent to each unit.

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Cause

Build-up of deposits in old pipes resulting in a reduced bore size

Repair

  • lime scale can build up in water pipes and reduce the flow of water. Call a registered plumber to remove the build-up or replace the pipes. Work on water supply pipes falls under the definition of sanitary plumbing and must be done by a registered plumber – DIY is not permitted. Lime scale is less likely to build up in some types of piping (such as copper or PVC) than others (such as steel) 

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Cause

A leak in the supply pipe

Repair

  • call a registered plumber to repair or replace the pipe. Work on water supply pipes falls under the definition of sanitary plumbing and must be done by a registered plumber – DIY is not permitted

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Cause

Worn pump if water supply is via a pumped system

Repair

  • call a pump specialist to repair or replace the pump

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Cause

Old system with limited water head (typically a header tank within the roof space) 

Repair

  • if modern bathroom fittings have recently been installed, check that they are compatible with a low-pressure water supply system – some new fittings do not work with older water supply systems. Call a registered plumber for advice about your options. Work on water supply pipes falls under the definition of sanitary plumbing and must be done by a registered plumber. DIY is not permitted. Options may include moving the header tank (the higher the tank, the greater the water pressure) or replacing the system with a mains pressure system. (This option may also require changes to taps, showerhead or other fixtures and appliances in the house)

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