How to Stabilise Water Pressure in Your Home This Year

Jarrad Smith • November 28, 2025

How to Stabilise Water Pressure in Your Home This Year

A weak shower can be the worst start to your day. You turn on the tap and expect a steady spray but it barely trickles out. And the most common complaint? Low water pressure in the shower. The fix might be easy but before buying a new showerhead or upgrading, it maybe helpful to understand what might be happening in your pipes.

Common issues in Australian homes

Water pressure problems are common in Newcastle homes. Old houses usually have pipes that are made of steel or copper. They can rust or clog up and slow the water down (or no flow at all). Newer homes, on the other hand, sometimes have plumbing that is too small or not fit for the household. This can also lead to weak pressure especially when more than one tap is on.

What Causes Fluctuating or Low Water Pressure?

There are many reasons why your water pressure might drop or change without warning. The following are some of the most common causes:

Partially closed valves
Pipe corrosion
Leaks
Blocked fixtures
Pressure regulators

When to call a licensed plumber

If your home has low water pressure due to the reasons mentioned above, it’s best not to leave it too long. A weak flow could be a symptom of a bigger issue brewing behind the walls. If the pressure keeps dropping or varies between rooms, then it’s time to call a licensed local plumber to assess the problem.

How to Increase Water Pressure in the Shower

If the low pressure is just in the shower, try taking off the showerhead and soaking it in vinegar. It will dissolve any mineral build-up that might be restricting flow. Aside from that, you can check the bathroom isolation valve. Make sure it’s fully open, as even a slight restriction there can already decrease pressure.

How to Improve Water Pressure Throughout Your Home

To improve water pressure throughout your home, it helps to start with a few simple checks around key areas.

Kitchen and bathroom taps

Unscrew the aerators or filters at the tip of your taps and give them a clean. These often collect sediment that slows down the flow. A quick soak in vinegar can help break it down.

Laundry taps

If your laundry tap pressure is strong while other areas are weak, the problem is probably isolated, such as in the kitchen or bathroom.

Mixer taps

Over time, mixer taps can clog or wear out, and if yours feels stiff or the pressure has dropped, it might need a new cartridge or replacement.

Hot water system issues

Sometimes, low water pressure is not always from the tap. If your shower or sink struggles to stay hot, then your hot water system could also be the reason. Things like build-up inside the unit, old or faulty valves, or incorrect temperature settings may all cause inconsistent flow. Storage units can suffer from sediment that slows water. Another thing is that if your continuous flow system isn’t heating well, it could be due to a blocked filter or something off with the gas supply.

If the water pressure issue is coming from your hot water system, our plumbers at Ausco Plumbing can take care of it. And if it’s taps, leaks, or low flow in other parts of your home, our residential plumbing team is ready to help with that, too.

Work With Local Licensed Plumbers in Newcastle

Local plumbers are knowledgeable about the types of materials and layouts used in Newcastle homes. Rather than guessing, they’ll test your pressure levels, trace the problem, and give you clear options. That kind of experience is hard to beat, and it means better outcomes.

Book a Water Pressure Inspection Today

If your water pressure has been driving you mad or you have put off repairs for too long, it’s definitely a good time for repairs. If you’d rather have someone local who knows plumbing in Newcastle, our same-day plumbers at Ausco Plumbing can check things over and help you figure out the best fix. Contact us today!

Call Ausco Plumbing

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Step Into a Trade: How to Become a Plumber in Newcastle

By Jarrad Smith • July 7, 2025

Plumbing is a trade that’s always in demand across Australia, and Newcastle is no different. With new builds going up, older homes needing updates, and steady growth in the region, skilled plumbers are needed in homes, businesses, and on construction sites. If you’re looking for a hands-on job that pays well and offers long-term security, plumbing could be the right fit. This guide will break it all down: from how to get qualified, where to find plumbing apprentice jobs, and where to study plumbing courses right here in Newcastle. Why Choose a Plumbing Career? A plumbing career isn’t just about fixing taps. It’s a licensed trade that covers drainage, gas fitting, roofing, water supply, and sanitation. In Newcastle, demand is steady thanks to local construction and renovation activity. With a plumbing qualification, you can work across different sectors, start your own business, or even move into supervisory or estimating roles later on. On top of that, plumbers in Australia earn competitive wages, and apprentices earn while they learn, making it easier to get started without the burden of university fees. How to Become a Plumber in Australia To become a licensed plumber in Australia, you’ll need to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing, which most people do while working as an apprentice. It’s a mix of practical, on-the-job experience and formal training. Once you’ve finished your apprenticeship, you’ll need to register and apply for your licence through your state’s regulator—NSW Fair Trading if you’re in New South Wales. After passing the required exams, you’ll be all set to work independently in the areas you’ve trained for. Plumbing Apprenticeships in Newcastle If you're in Newcastle and looking to start your plumbing career, a plumbing apprenticeship is usually the first step. It takes about four years and combines paid, hands-on work with classroom learning. To get started, you’ll need to find an employer to take you on. This could be a local plumber, a builder, or a maintenance crew. You can find openings through: Online job boards (like SEEK or Indeed) Group training organisations in the Newcastle area TAFE NSW career support services Word of mouth and local connections As a plumbing apprentice, you’ll work alongside licensed plumbers, gaining hands-on experience with drainage systems, pipework, roof plumbing, gas fitting, and more. You’ll also attend classes as part of your plumbing apprenticeship Newcastle pathway, building your knowledge of codes, safety, and the theory behind the tools. Plumbing Courses and Training in Newcastle Newcastle offers several training options for future plumbers. The most common qualification is the Certificate III in Plumbing, which is usually delivered over four years during your apprenticeship. You can study through TAFE NSW Newcastle, which provides practical facilities and experienced trainers. Some Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) also offer plumbing courses in the region. These courses cover: Water supply and drainage systems Sanitary plumbing Roofing and guttering Workplace safety and legislation Gas fitting fundamentals Some students start with a pre-apprenticeship plumbing course in Newcastle to build confidence and get a foot in the door. These short programs can help you land an apprenticeship by giving you basic trade skills and a better understanding of the job. Plumbing Jobs and Opportunities in Newcastle Once you’ve completed your training, there are plenty of plumbing jobs available across Newcastle and the Hunter region. You could work in residential maintenance, new home construction, commercial fit-outs, or large-scale infrastructure projects. There are entry-level jobs for those finishing apprenticeships, along with more advanced roles for licensed plumbers who want to specialise or manage teams. Plumbing jobs can also lead to roles in project management, estimating, or compliance. Keep an eye on local job boards, trade group websites, and talk to your trainers or mentors. Many plumbers get hired by companies they worked with during their apprenticeship. Exploring Trade Careers Beyond Plumbing While plumbing is a solid career choice, it’s also part of a wider world of skilled trades. If you're still exploring, you might also consider: Electrical Carpentry Air conditioning and refrigeration Tiling or waterproofing Metal fabrication or welding Each of these trades has its own training path and licensing process. They all share a common thread: practical, hands-on work with opportunities to grow and earn as you build your experience. If you start with plumbing but later discover a different interest, you’re still gaining skills that apply across many trades and careers. Tips for Success in Your Plumbing Career Stay curious : Ask questions on-site and during class. Every job is a chance to learn. Build your network : Stay connected with trainers, classmates, and employers. Many plumbing jobs come through referrals. Keep your attitude right : Be reliable, show up prepared, and take pride in your work. Invest in good tools : As you progress, start building your kit with quality tools that last. Consider future training : Once qualified, you can add new plumbing classes to your license or specialise further. Launch Your Plumbing Career If you’re based in Newcastle and looking for a practical, respected trade, plumbing might be the perfect fit. Begin exploring local plumbing apprentice jobs, get to know your training options, and take the first step into a career that keeps our homes and cities running. Ready to get started? Reach out to your local TAFE or trade group, talk to working plumbers, and learn more about plumbing Newcastle locals rely on every day.