When you turn on the tap and it’s an intense blast that makes you take a step back, you’ve probably wondered whether that high water pressure is a good thing or not.
Well, you’re not alone – even if many Brisbane homeowners enjoy the feeling of a strong shower or a sink that fills quickly. But water that flows too forcefully through your pipes can quietly cause major problems. Over time, the stress adds up and can shorten the life of:
- Your appliances
- Your fixtures
- Your entire plumbing system!
Here at S&J Plumbing & Gasfitting, we’re often called out to homes where water pressure too high has been the diagnosis – the hidden cause of leaks, noisy pipes, or premature appliance failure. In our guide, we’ll explain why water pressure varies across suburbs, what counts as normal, and the biggest risks of letting it run unchecked.
Why does water pressure differ from house to house?
Water pressure isn’t the same everywhere – but why? Well, it depends on a mix of supply and property factors:
Local infrastructure: Water mains in hilly suburbs often need to deliver stronger pressure to reach higher areas, which means homes at the bottom of the hill can experience excessive pressure.
Property elevation: Homes at the top of a slope will usually receive less pressure than those lower down.
Supply demand: Pressure can fluctuate depending on peak usage times in your street.
On-site plumbing: Faulty or missing regulators, undersized pipes, or older fixtures can all affect what you feel at the tap.
This is why one neighbour might have a gentle trickle while another has a high pressure tap that blasts with every turn.
What is normal household water pressure in Australia?
Don’t worry too much about your everyday water pressure, as strict plumbing standards aim to protect homes from excess force. If you’re asking what is normal household water pressure in Australia, the answer is generally between 250-500 kPa (kilopascals). Anything above 500 kPa is considered too high and can damage plumbing over time.
Why is my water pressure so high all of a sudden?
Sometimes pressure changes overnight. If you’ve found yourself wondering why is my water pressure so high all of a sudden, possible reasons include:
- Repairs or upgrades to local mains.
- A failed pressure limiting valve on your property.
- Seasonal changes in demand.
- Construction nearby altering the flow.
But if the change is sudden and noticeable, it’s best to have it checked quickly – high pressure rarely improves on its own.
9 Ways high pressure damages your plumbing
Let’s take a look at the main reasons you should never ignore high pressure in your home.
1. Water hammer
Excess pressure makes water hammer far more severe, increasing the risk of burst pipes and loud, unsettling banging through your walls.
2. Leaking taps and fixtures
Constant force wears out washers, cartridges, and seals faster. The result? Dripping taps, leaking shower heads, and the need for more frequent repairs. Even new fixtures can fail early if the pressure behind them is too strong.
3. Burst pipes & joints
Pipes, especially older copper or PVC, are not designed for continuous strain. Over time, high pressure weakens joints and connections, leading to cracks, burst pipes, or slow leaks hidden inside walls and under floors.
4. Appliance damage
Dishwashers, washing machines, and hot water units are built to handle standard supply. When full pressure plumbing pushes more water through than they’re designed for, internal valves and seals can fail. This not only causes costly repairs but may also void manufacturer warranties.
5. Hot water system stress
Excessive tap water pressure affects storage tanks and instant hot water units. Storage tanks can expand and contract with every cycle, leading to early corrosion or ruptures. Instant systems may suffer from irregular heating and shorter lifespans.
6. Toilet problems
Cistern valves are especially sensitive. Too much pressure can stop them from shutting off properly, leading to constant running, higher water bills, or damage to the internal fittings.
7. Increased water bills
More pressure means more water flows every second. Over weeks and months, this adds up to noticeable increases in your bill – even when your water use habits haven’t changed.
8. Wasted energy
If your hot water system is heating water at a higher flow rate than needed, you’re also using more electricity or gas. This adds unnecessary strain to both your plumbing and your wallet.
9. Reduced plumbing lifespan
The combined wear and tear on pipes, joints, and appliances means your whole system simply won’t last as long. What could have been decades of reliable service may be cut short to just a few years before major replacements are needed.
Signs your water pressure might be too high
Keep an eye (and ear) out for:
- Taps or showers that spray more forcefully than expected.
- Appliances that seem to fail or leak often.
- Regularly dripping taps despite new washers.
- Sudden or ongoing banging noises in your pipes.
- Toilets that continue running after flushing.
Noticing none or more of these? Your pressure is definitely worth testing.
Testing & fixing high water pressure
Plumbers use a simple gauge to test your pressure at a tap or hose outlet. If it’s over 500 kPa, we recommend installing or repairing a pressure reducing valve. This small device is fitted at your property’s water entry point and automatically keeps supply within safe levels.
Regular maintenance is also key – valves can wear out, so periodic checks ensure they keep working properly.
Don’t ignore the warning signs
Excessive water force might feel convenient in the shower – but the hidden risks far outweigh the benefits. By tackling pressure issues early, you protect your plumbing system, appliances, and your budget from avoidable damage.
Need help with water pressure in Brisbane?
Get in touch with S&J Plumbing & Gasfitting any time. Our licensed and friendly Brisbane plumbers will test your supply, explain your options, and install the right solutions to keep your home safe and your water system running smoothly.