How to Pressure Test Plumbing
In water systems, a leak can not only cause water damage to your home, but it can also cause pressure problems with the water flow. You can check your water pressure through a few simple steps, and make appropriate repairs if such repairs are necessary.
Directions:
- Inspect the pipes and water supply. The water must be turned off prior to checking the pipes. Check that the pipes are dry.
- Obstruct the draining and water pipes to create an airtight system, obstructing with T-fittings. Plastic tops cap off the drains and piping to help ensure an airtight system.
- Hook up the pressure gauge and air pump at a fitting for a cleanout.
- Apply pressure to the pipes at five pounds per square inch using an air pump.
- Keep watch over the air pressure going into the pipes. Keep track of the air pressure going through the pipes by checking the air pressure gauge at fifteen minute intervals. If the pressure remains constant in the pipes without any change, the air pressure test was successful and the pipes are airtight. If the air pressure does not remain constant, there is a leak in the pipes.
- Inspect the pipes for any signs of leaks. The leaks show up as air leaving the pipes. Verify a leak by placing soapy water to the suspected leak and seeing if any bubbles appear.
- Repair any leaks to the pipes. This can be done by soldering improperly fitted couplings (in copper pipes) or gluing the fittings to plastic pipes.