We get used to how taps “feel” without realising that some may be slowly losing pressure. Using a bucket to test is a simple way to measure what’s going on.

You can time how long it takes to fill a known volume – say a 10-litre bucket – from different taps: kitchen sink, bathroom basin, shower, garden tap. If one is suddenly much slower than the others, that tells you something local is wrong there: maybe an aerator is clogged, a valve isn’t fully open, or a section of pipe is partially blocked.

Testing occasionally gives you a baseline and helps you notice changes over months or years. It’s like checking your tyre pressure regularly instead of waiting for a flat. Early information means easier fixes.