Why Is My Water Pressure Low, and How Can I Improve It?
Have you noticed a weak stream of water when you turn on the tap or hop in the shower? Low water pressure isn’t just frustrating — it can also be a sign that something’s not quite right with your plumbing.
At A Grade Plumbing & Gas, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Ipswich troubleshoot and restore their water flow. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the common causes of low water pressure, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call a trusted plumber in Brisbane.
Common Causes of Low Water Pressure
There are a number of reasons why your water pressure might drop. Some are easy to fix, while others may require professional attention. Here are the most frequent issues we see:
- Partially Closed Valves
If the main water valve or the water meter tap isn’t fully open, your entire home could be affected. It’s worth checking that these valves are turned all the way on. A slightly turned valve may reduce pressure throughout the property.
- Blocked or Corroded Pipes
Over time, minerals from hard water can build up inside your plumbing, restricting flow. In older homes, rust or corrosion inside galvanised pipes can also be a culprit. These blockages typically happen out of sight and often require inspection by a licensed plumber.
- Leaking Pipes
Leaks in your plumbing system can dramatically affect water pressure, especially if they’re behind walls or under floors. Even a small crack or pinhole leak can divert water from where it’s needed most. In these cases, expert water leak detection is the safest and most efficient way to locate and repair the problem.
- Faulty Fixtures or Aerators
Sometimes, it’s not the plumbing — it’s the tap or showerhead itself. A build-up of grime, calcium, or debris in tapware or aerators can restrict water flow in a single fixture. Cleaning or replacing them can quickly improve pressure.
- Issues with the Local Supply
Occasionally, the issue lies with your water provider. If maintenance is being carried out on local mains, or if there’s a pressure-reducing valve installed by the council, your pressure may dip temporarily. If your neighbours are also affected, this could be the cause.
How to Improve Water Pressure at Home
While some water pressure issues require a professional fix, there are a few things you can check yourself before calling in a plumber:
How to Improve Water Pressure at Home
While some water pressure issues require a professional fix, there are a few things you can check yourself before calling in a plumber:
Check and Clean Tap Aerators
Unscrew the aerators on your taps and give them a good rinse. If they’re clogged with sediment or mineral deposits, a soak in vinegar can help break it down. This alone can restore proper flow in many cases.
Look for Visible Leaks
Take a quick tour of your property and check for damp patches, puddles, or water stains. These may indicate a leak that’s reducing water flow. Even if you can’t see the source, a professional water leak detection service can trace it quickly and accurately.
Inspect Outdoor Taps and Irrigation
Garden taps and sprinkler systems can sometimes be the source of pressure drops. Make sure they’re off when not in use and check for leaks or damaged connections.
Consider a Pressure-Boosting System
For homes in areas where pressure is consistently low — even with perfect plumbing — a pump and pressure tank may help. This is a solution that a qualified plumber in Brisbane can assess and install based on your needs.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve checked all the basics and your water pressure is still low, it’s time to bring in the experts. Here’s when to call A Grade Plumbing & Gas:
- You suspect a hidden leak
- Water pressure is low throughout the whole property
- Pipes are old, corroded, or making unusual noises
- Water pressure changes suddenly or frequently
- You’re experiencing low pressure alongside drainage issues
We use advanced technology to get to the root of the problem quickly — whether it’s with thermal cameras, acoustic sensors or CCTV pipe inspections. And if it turns out the issue is urgent, our emergency plumber Brisbane service is ready to respond 24/7.
We Don’t Just Fix Water Pressure
While restoring water pressure is something we do regularly, it’s just one of the many plumbing services we offer. At A Grade Plumbing & Gas, we’re proud to provide:
- Water leak detection for homes and businesses
- Leaking tap repairs to stop annoying drips and save water
- Drain cleaning to remove blockages and keep your system flowing
- Emergency plumbing services for those unexpected disasters
Whether it’s a small job or a major repair, we take pride in doing the job right — with honest advice, upfront pricing, and friendly service.
Why Brisbane Locals Choose A Grade Plumbing & Gas
✅ Fully licensed, insured and experienced
✅ Prompt and reliable — we show up when we say we will
✅ Transparent pricing with no surprises
✅ Friendly team with a focus on long-term solutions
✅ Servicing Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast
Low water pressure can be more than a minor annoyance — it can indicate underlying issues that may get worse over time. Don’t ignore the signs. Reach out to the team at A Grade Plumbing & Gas for expert help that gets to the source of the problem — and gets your water flowing again.
Need a hand with your water pressure or plumbing?
Contact A Grade Plumbing & Gas today — Brisbane’s trusted team for pressure fixes, leak detection, and all-round plumbing solutions.