Changes to water pressure in Adelaide's north
A combination of recent hot weather, higher than usual demand and ongoing network upgrade work is contributing to some changes in water pressure in parts of Adelaide’s northern suburbs. These prolonged hot weather conditions have significantly increased demand across the network particularly in peak times, and when combined with critical infrastructure upgrades to support our network expansion, some customers are experiencing lower than normal water pressure depending on their location.
These significant upgrade works will increase network capacity in Adelaide’s north and while these works are being completed, there may be short periods of reduced pressure as we test, commission and connect new pipes. During these upgrades, we will continue to find ways to improve water network performance for customers ahead of new infrastructure coming online.
Water network capacity upgrades
We’re delivering significant upgrades to increase the capacity of our water network in Adelaide’s north. While this new infrastructure is tested and brought online, some areas may experience temporarily reduced water pressure.
We’re preparing to turn on new water mains that will improve supply to Riverlea Park as part of our ongoing network capacity upgrades. While we undertake this important work, some customers in this area may experience intermittent periods of reduced water pressure until late March.
Water from the existing network will be used to fill the new pipes and this may temporarily reduce water pressure in the area. Where possible, we have scheduled these activities to avoid peak water use periods during the day, to help reduce any impact on our customers.
You may also notice short periods of discoloured water during this time due to fine sediment being stirred up within our pipes. This is normal following changes in water movement and refilling of pipes. Importantly, your water remains safe to drink, and you can help clear this discolouration by running your outside taps for a few minutes.
Once this work has been completed in late March, ongoing water pressure levels will be more consistent across the day and night.
If you’re experiencing sustained and ongoing low water pressure, or no supply, this may be unrelated to this work and you can let us know on our faults map. You can also register for updates on known water supply issues through the faults map.
We’re preparing to turn on new water mains as part of our ongoing network capacity upgrades across Adelaide’s northern suburbs. While we undertake this important work throughout March, some customers in Angle Vale, Smithfield Plains, Munno Para, Munno Para West, Munno Para Downs, Andrews Farm, Davoren Park and Elizabeth North may experience intermittent periods of reduced water pressure.
Water from the existing network will be used to fill the new pipes and this may temporarily reduce water pressure in these areas. Where possible, we have scheduled these activities to avoid peak water use periods, which will help reduce impact on our customers.
You may also notice short periods of discoloured water during this time due to fine sediment being stirred up within our pipes. This is normal following changes in water movement and refilling of pipes. Importantly, your water remains safe to drink, and you can help clear this discolouration by running your outside taps for a few minutes.
Once this work has been completed in late March, your water supply will return to consistent levels of pressure.
If you’re experiencing sustained and ongoing low water pressure, this may be unrelated to this work and you can let us know on our faults map. You can also register for updates on known water supply issues through the faults map.
Ways to reduce impact on your household
Reducing your water use during peak times can help ease the load. Where you can, between 7am-9am and 7pm-9pm on weekdays, and 10am-12pm on weekends, consider shifting the following activities outside these busy periods to help manage pressure for you and your neighbours:
- Watering your garden
- Running you dishwasher
- Doing a load of washing
- Washing of vehicles
What to do if your water is cloudy or discoloured
You may also notice slightly discoloured or cloudy water during this period. This happens when fine sediment inside pipes is stirred up as water movement changes. It’s a normal part of the process, and your water remains safe to drink. Running an outside tap for a few minutes can help clear it.
What’s next
More upgrade work is planned over the coming months, which may cause similar short-term changes to pressure or water appearance. We’ll keep the community updated ahead of any expected impacts.
If you experience sustained and ongoing low water pressure, please let us know on our faults map. You can also register for updates on known issues through the faults map.
If you are experiencing a water outage, please call us on 1300 SA WATER (1300 729 283).
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we deliver these essential upgrades to support housing growth in Adelaide’s north.