Complaints of Low Water Pressure from HDB Flat Dwellers

Mr Png Eng Huat asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) over the past five years, what is the number of feedback that PUB has received each year on low water pressure from HDB flat dwellers; (b) how are these cases of feedback addressed; (c) why is there no requirement to specify the minimum pressure for the supply of water to individual HDB flats under the Code of Practice for Water Services; and (d) whether PUB will consider doing so.

Over the last five years, the Public Utilities Board (PUB) received about 100 pieces of feedback on low water pressure from Housing and Development board (HDB) units each month. The causes of low water pressure are mainly due to partially closed valves in the water supply pipes to the units, stoppage of pumps and chokage in service pipes and fittings due to encrustations. These fixtures are usually installed and maintained by either the Town Council or the building or unit owner.

PUB works closely with the Town Councils to attend to feedback received. For partially closed valves often due to earlier works which required them to be closed the problem is resolved by fully opening the valve in the water supply pipe, either by the customer, the Town Council, or PUB. Many of these cases are resolved easily by PUB advising owners over the telephone. For cases due to stoppage of pumps usually caused by power failure or a faulty valve in the pump system, the problem is resolved by restarting the pump by the Town Council. For cases of chokes due to encrustation of older pipes, PUB would advise the household to replace these pipes. In most cases, the problem is resolved within the day.

Currently, the Singapore Standard CP 48 – Code of Practice for Water Services (SS CP48) stipulates the requirements for all plumbing systems. This is a national standard on water services, drawn up in consultation with engineering professionals, members of the industries and other Government agencies. It specifies the maximum and best water conservation flow rates for different fittings and appliances in the customers' premises. The Code does not specify minimum pressure at each HDB unit. This is similar to practices in England, Wales and Hong Kong. The actual flow rate available at fittings and appliances vary based on the types of water fittings/appliances used, the size and layouts of the units and the number of concurrent use of the fixtures. The Professional Engineer has to work closely with the developers and architects on the design for the water installations and ensure that it complies with SS CP48.

In view of the recent proliferation of water appliances and the need to conserve water, PUB is reviewing the requirements for minimum pressure standards at residential units. Extensive consultation with industry stakeholders and the public will be necessary and we will not rush into formulating new regulations.

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