High Water Pressure Protection Reduction in Canberra & Queanbeyan
High water pressure problems resolved fast. Pressure reduction valves protect your plumbing & boost your chances of successful insurance claims & warranty claims. For help in Canberra, call 0448844911
6 Star Hot Water and Plumbing are Canberra’s and Queanbeyan’s water pressure experts
More than 50% of homes in Canberra and Queanbeyan have main inlet water pressures that exceed the 500kPa limit referred to in modern Australian plumbing codes, regulations and standards.
This does not mean all of these houses are not compliant. However, there are major problems associated with having hot and cold water pressure that exceeds 500kPa.
What is the maximum 500kPa water pressure rule?
The rule in ASNZ3500 referring to the maximum inlet water pressure of 500kPa came into effect in 2005. The rule applies to all new homes built from 2005 onwards and all renovations from 2005 onwards that included an addition of an extra plumbing fixture or a significant change to the water pipes.
To comply with the rule a pressure reduction valve is typically installed directly after the water utility’s water meter at the boundary for free standing houses, or directly after the main cold water stop cock on the inlet pipe for units and apartments.
In Canberra the rule is not meant to apply to dwellings that were constructed or renovated prior to 2005 and where there has been no additions of a plumbing fixture or a significant change to the water pipes.
For example, unless the specific product installation guides require an inlet water pressure lower than 500kPa, a replacement of a faulty toilet cistern including the stop tap and inlet pipe are exempt from the 500kPa rule.
This is because Product warranty conditions are always subordinate to local government regulations.
Why was the 500kPa maximum water pressure rule introduced?
Water saving
The rule was introduced for water saving. The idea is the lower the pressure the less water could be forced through a tap or piping system.
As a part of water saving measures, flow rate restrictors such as discs were also installed in tapware. Coincidingly, if the water pressure was too high these discs could crack.
Protection of pipes and fittings
Composite and plastic pipes and fittings do not have the durability of the older copper and galvanised steel pipes and fittings.
Composite and plastic pipes rely on O-rings or crimped barb joints that have less strength, durability and watertightness than the welded or threaded joints found on copper and galvanised steel pipe. Plastic and composite fittings and pipes are also prone to stretching and splitting if put under strain.
What are other reasons for having mains water pressure at or lower than 500kPa
- To prevent water hammer and knocking.
- Warranty on faulty plumbing products.
- More favourable outcomes for insurance claims.
- To balance the flow rate and pressures between hot and cold water piping systems.
6 Star Hot Water and Plumbing are Canberra’s and Queanbeyan’s local water pressure reduction experts
High water pressure problems resolved fast. Pressure reduction valves protect your plumbing & boost your chances of successful insurance claims & warranty claims.
For help in Canberra, call 0448844911