We aim to maintain our pressure in the water mains between 12 - 15 metres head. Excessive water pressure can lead to water main breaks and cause leaks in the water system. Water pressure management aims to adjust water pressure levels in the supply system to achieve more consistent pressure levels which will reduce the number of water main breaks, improve the reliability of the water supply system and conserve water, while maintaining adequate supply to all our customers.

Questions & Answers

What is water pressure?

Water pressure is measured according to the force needed to move the water from our mains and into your property. It is measured in 'metres head', for example one metre head will support a column of water one metre high.

Why do some areas experience higher pressure than others?

Water is distributed to customers through a network of water supply zones. The reservoirs are feeding the water supply zones are located in high points. Water is distributed from the reservoir across the zone using a gravity system. Water pressure varies at different locations in the zone depending on your property's elevation and proximity to the reservoir.

Properties in low areas may receive higher water pressure. Properties in high areas may receive lower water pressure.

How does water pressure management work?

Water pressure is managed in incremental steps using pressure regulating valves and monitoring points to achieve more consistent water pressure levels across the water supply network.