Low Water Pressure in high rise buildings

In summary, it is assumed that the energy used to move water from one place to another is the same, whether the water is delivered to a high-rise apartment or a lower-rise apartment. This assumption is wrong because the energy required to move water to a high-rise apartment is higher.
  • #1
sco_111
4
0
Missing homework template due to originally being posted elsewhere.
Hello, I am learning physics on my own and came across this question about why we would have low water pressure in a high rise apartment compared to an apartment located on ground level. I googled and cannot find a direct explanation.

I took some time to think about the approach and I could only come up with this explanation.
First of all, I assume that the energy used to deliver a fixed amount of water is the same for a low-rise and a high-rise apartment (since water pumps should be working at constant power). Does this assumption make sense?
Secondly, Energy = Force x distance and pressure is proportional to force. Area of taps outlets are the same.
For the same amount of energy, the lowrise apt should receive water at a higher force/pressure as compared to a high rise.
Does that make sense? Anyone has a better explanation?
 
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  • #2
sco_111 said:
First of all, I assume that the energy used to deliver a fixed amount of water is the same for a low-rise and a high-rise apartment (since water pumps should be working at constant power). Does this assumption make sense?
No, this assumption is wrong. What is the energy required to move 1 kg of water to the bottom floor? What is the energy required to move 1 kg of water to the top floor?

For a fluid in a connected system, what is the relation between the pressure at different heights?
 
  • #3
I would understand that the enrgy required to move 1kg of water to the top flr would be proportionally higher to the height ratio. So, my assumption is incorrect.
This question is part of the Pressure topic and not in fluid dynamics (which I think is advanced). So, I only know about pressure at different heights for a column of water but I think this does not apply here. Any other clues? Thanks.
 
  • #4
Why would it not apply?
 
  • #5
For a column of water, the pressure is proportional to the height of the column of water. So, at different heights, h1>h2, P(h1)<P(h2).
So, I should think of this in this way.
If I think of the pump as a water body which is situated at a higher level than the building, then this would apply. Is that correct?
 
  • #6
Thanks, orodruin for your help. Apologies for flouting some of the forum rules.
 

What causes low water pressure in high rise buildings?

Low water pressure in high rise buildings can be caused by a variety of factors. One common cause is the height of the building, which creates a greater distance for the water to travel. Other causes include clogged pipes, faulty pressure regulators, and inadequate water supply to the building.

Can low water pressure in high rise buildings be fixed?

Yes, low water pressure in high rise buildings can be fixed. The solution will depend on the specific cause of the low water pressure. In some cases, replacing or repairing clogged pipes or faulty pressure regulators can improve water pressure. Additionally, installing booster pumps or increasing the size of water supply pipes can also help increase water pressure in high rise buildings.

Is low water pressure in high rise buildings a health concern?

In most cases, low water pressure in high rise buildings is not a health concern. However, if the low water pressure is caused by clogged pipes, it may lead to bacterial growth and contamination. It is important to address low water pressure issues in a timely manner to ensure the safety of the building's water supply.

Does low water pressure in high rise buildings affect fire safety?

Yes, low water pressure in high rise buildings can have a significant impact on fire safety. In the event of a fire, low water pressure can hinder the effectiveness of sprinkler systems and fire hydrants. This can result in delayed response times and potentially more damage. It is crucial to maintain proper water pressure in high rise buildings to ensure adequate fire safety measures.

Are there any preventive measures to avoid low water pressure in high rise buildings?

There are some preventive measures that can help avoid low water pressure in high rise buildings. Regular maintenance of pipes and pressure regulators can help prevent clogs and other issues that can lead to low water pressure. Additionally, installing booster pumps or increasing the size of water supply pipes during construction can also help prevent low water pressure in the future.

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