Accumulation of Sediment In Your Plumbing
As is the case when the hot water runs out regularly (internal link, see FAQ #2), low or fluctuating water pressure can result from the buildup of sediment, rust and calcium carbonate within your plumbing system. This problem may be caused by corrosion within the tank in older models or defects in the water supply to the home. Newer models can simply be flushed out according to our instructions here, while older models will need a replacement which can be purchased from Australian Hot Water.
Partially-Closed Shutoff Valve
Water pressure can be negatively affected by a partially-opened shutoff valve. A partially closed shutoff valve will reduce the pressure of your entire hot water system and it follows that the valve should be opened completely to solve this problem.
Wrong Sizes of Water Supply Lines
Water prefers to flow from larger pipes into smaller pipes. When the water supply lines are of great length to reach hot water outlets it can lead to issues with hot water pressure. Repiping with larger diameter water supply lines or repositioning the water heater is the best solution in this situation.
Faulty or Wrong Configuration of the Pressure Reduction Valve
If you use a pressure reduction valve and it is not set correctly, it will affect the water pressure throughout your entire plumbing system. Check the valve setting. Benchmark it to the normal water pressure and adjust or replace with the correct size valve as necessary. If it’s set correctly to the right pressure setting yet the water pressure is still low it’s worth a call to the professionals at Australian Hot Water to rectify this fault.
Worn Out Tap Fixtures
A worn out outlet or tap like a flick mixer or single use spindle style could contain large volumes of calcium carbonate which, as discussed above, can reduce the water pressure from many outlets in your home. The simple solution here is to replace or service this Tap at the outlet.
