The speed and volume with which water comes out of your faucet or shower head are known as the water flow rate. The water board is tasked with ensuring that the flow at your home is satisfactory. That means, a flow rate of at least 20 litres per minute.
You can test your flow rate by filling a bucket from your hose or tap. Divide the volume of water in the bucket by the time it took to fill. For example, if it takes 1.5 minutes to fill a 10-litre bucket, your float rate is 10/1.5, which equals 6.6 litres per minute.
This would be considered a low flow rate. After all, the average shower uses 2 gallons of water per minute, that’s roughly the equivalent of 10 litres per minute. Showers can use more and other household appliances may be in use at the same time, that’s why the water board must supply water at 20 litres a minute or more.
Of course, it should be noted that having good water pressure doesn’t guarantee you a clean water supply. The water board filters water and adds chemicals to kill pathogens. But, the water can become contaminated on its way to you, that’s why it’s recommended you have water filter taps fitted. These will ensure you have clean water and they can help to regulate the pressure
The Need For Water Regulation
The majority of homes have a pressure regulator fitted into their supply line. Its purpose is to allow you to set your water flow rate or pressure. If you’re looking to reduce usage and save money then you may want to set a low pressure. Of course, if you want to enjoy a powerful shower you’ll need to turn the pressure up.
But, the real reason to have a pressure regulator is to protect your appliances. High water pressure can damage valves in your system, causing leaks. The water pressure isn’t always the same, no matter how hard the board tries. Mains leaks and other issues can cause the pressure to fluctuate. Your pressure regulator helps to ensure your flow rate is steady and your appliances are protected.
Pressure Versus Flow
There is a difference between pressure and flow rate. The flow rate, as described, is how much water travels through a given section of the pipe in a specified amount of time. In contrast, the water pressure, which in Australia is regulated to between 45 and 50 psi, is the force at which water flows.
Although they sound similar, they are different but related. If the flow rate remains the same then reducing the pipe size will increase the pressure as the water will flow at the same speed but have less space. Inversely, increase the pipe size and the pressure will drop, providing the flow rate remains constant.
The good news is that you don’t need to know the details. Your water should be leaving your hosepipe at a flow rate of 20 litres per minute. You know how to test it and you can contact the water board if the rate is low.
