Is Your Plumbing Under Too Much Stress?

High water pressure might seem like a luxury, that strong, hotel-style shower or fast-filling sink. But when pressure climbs beyond safe levels, your plumbing system can suffer silently until damage becomes unavoidable.

At The Plumbing Paramedics, we diagnose, reduce, and manage high-pressure water problems to protect your home, your appliances, and your wallet.

What Is Water Pressure?

Water pressure is the force that pushes water through your pipes, measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Sydney Water usually keeps pressure within safe ranges, but it can spike due to location, elevation, or supply line conditions. Anything above 500 kPa (approx. 72 psi) is considered high water pressure under AS/NZS 3500 standards.

Why High Water Pressure Is a Problem

Pipe Damage & Leaks

High pressure stresses your entire system, from joints and elbows to the smallest flexi hose under your sink. Over time, this force leads to cracks, pinhole leaks, or sudden bursts. One undetected high-pressure leak can cause thousands in water damage.

Appliance & Fixture Wear

Hot water systems, dishwashers, and washing machines are designed to operate within specific tolerances. High pressure shortens their lifespan, increases repair needs, and reduces energy efficiency. Showerheads, taps and mixers start to leak or rattle.

Water Hammer & Noisy Plumbing

If your pipes bang or “thunk” when turning off a tap, that’s a symptom of water hammer, caused by abrupt pressure changes in a high-pressure system. This isn’t just annoying, it’s destructive.

Real Signs You May Have High Water Pressure

• Banging or noisy pipes
• Water hammer sounds after tap shutoff
• Excessive water use or high water bills
• Leaking taps, flexi hoses or valves
• Frequently failing appliances or mixers
• Spraying taps or overly strong showers

Protecting Your Pipes: Our Solutions

1. Pressure Testing

We use calibrated pressure gauges to test your incoming water pressure and confirm if your system is above the safe threshold.

2. Installing Pressure Reduction Valves (PRVs)

We install NSW-compliant PRVs to bring incoming water to safe levels, protecting your fixtures, appliances and pipework. We place these at the point of water entry or specific fixtures, depending on the setup.

3. Thermal Expansion Tanks

For hot water systems under pressure, thermal expansion tanks absorb excess volume and help regulate internal system pressure, esp with closed-loop setups.

4. Replacing Damaged Flexi Hoses

We inspect all braided stainless-steel flexi hoses, known for catastrophic failure under high pressure and replace them with compliant, durable alternatives.

Prevent Damage Before It Starts

High water pressure can remain hidden until the damage is done. Regular maintenance, especially in homes over 10 years old or those with recent renovations, is key. Our licensed Sydney plumbers offer same-day testing, advice, and long-term prevention.

Why Choose The Plumbing Paramedics?

• Licensed Sydney-based plumbers
• Experts in pressure regulation and appliance protection
• Emergency-ready — 24/7 support
• We investigate the cause, not just the symptoms
• Fully insured and compliant with AS/NZS 3500
• Transparent pricing and upfront quotes

Sydney’s High Water Pressure Experts

If your shower sprays like a firehose, your pipes sound like they’re drumming, or your hot water unit keeps playing up, don’t ignore the signs. High water pressure isn’t a luxury. It’s a hazard.

📞 Call The Plumbing Paramedics now for a pressure test or pressure regulator installation.

FAQs For High Water Pressure

What is considered high water pressure in a home?

Anything over 500 kPa (about 72 psi) is too high for residential plumbing in Australia. This is the maximum allowed under the AS/NZS 3500 standards.

How do I know if my water pressure is too high?

Common signs include banging pipes, leaking taps, flexi hoses bursting, noisy appliances, and high water bills.

Will a pressure regulator lower all the water pressure in my house?

Yes — when installed at the main water supply point. It ensures a consistent, safe pressure across your whole home.

Can high water pressure damage my hot water system?

Absolutely. It can rupture the pressure relief valve, reduce efficiency, and lead to early system failure.

Can I check my water pressure myself?

You can buy a water pressure gauge from hardware stores and attach it to an outside tap. For accurate diagnostics and long-term solutions, it’s best to call a licensed plumber.

Do all homes need a pressure regulator?

Not necessarily. But homes with signs of pressure issues, older pipework, or repeated appliance failures can benefit greatly from one.