An Essential Step in Home Renovation: Water Pipe Pressure Testing

                                                                                                     An Essential Step in Home Renovation: Water Pipe Pressure Testing

• What is a Water Pipe Pressure Test?

A water pipe pressure test (commonly known as a “pressure test”) can be understood as follows: To verify that pipes, joints, and other components will not leak or malfunction under normal usage conditions, a complete pressure testing system (typically including a 60 bar pressure pump) is used to artificially apply high pressure to the installed plumbing system. This pressure test is a crucial inspection procedure to check whether the piping is sturdy and leak-free.

In simpler terms: After the plumbing system is installed, we use a complete pressure testing system—including a pressure pump—to give the pipes a “checkup.” By applying pressure higher than normal operating conditions, we simulate and test the pressure resistance of pipes and fittings to identify leaks or other potential issues. The goal is to ensure the plumbing system is flawless before walls and floors are enclosed.

• Why Perform Water Pipe Pressure Testing?

• Verify pipe and fitting quality before renovation: Detect whether purchased pipes and fittings are substandard products and can withstand high-pressure impacts. Identify leaks at welded joints and connections in advance to ensure no water seepage or leakage during use. Detect and repair leaks during installation: 90% of leaks occur at joints (e.g., improper heat fusion or loose screws). Fixing these issues is straightforward—simply replace the joint. If leaks emerge after renovation, walls and floors must be demolished for reinspection and repair. This not only significantly increases repair costs and causes substantial damage but also compromises the user's move-in experience.

• Ensuring Durability: Verify the stability of pipes under high pressure to guarantee long-term water system safety.

• Given the critical importance of pressure testing, how should piping systems undergo this assessment?

Step 1: Preparation

Prepare tools: Jack, manual pressure test pump, connecting hoses, etc.

Before testing, ensure all water pipes are fully installed with no temporary connections or loose fittings.

Connecting Pipes:

Use hoses to connect hot and cold water pipes, forming a closed loop.

Attach the pressure tester to any outlet.

Shut Off Main Water Valve and Drain:

Close the main water inlet valve to prevent external water ingress during testing.

Use the drain method to remove air from pipes, ensuring the system is fully filled with water.

Step 2: Pressure Testing

Using a manual pump or other pressurization equipment, gradually increase the system pressure until the predetermined pressure value is reached. Typically, the test pressure is three times the normal water pressure, i.e., 0.9-1.0 MPa (approximately 8-10 PSI).

After pressurization, stabilize the pressure for a period (duration varies by pipe material. For example, welded pipes like PPR typically require 30 minutes, while aluminum-plastic composite pipes require 4 hours).

Pressure and Leak Inspection:

During stabilization, monitor the pressure gauge reading for stability. A drop exceeding 0.1 MPa (approximately 0.1 kg) indicates potential leakage.

Simultaneously, inspect pipe joints, plugs, and other connections for visible leaks or seepage.

Step 3: Result Evaluation

If the pressure reading on the gauge remains stable during the pressure stabilization period, and no leaks or seepage occur throughout the entire pipeline system—including all joints—the water pipe system is deemed qualified.

Should leaks or other issues be detected, repairs must be performed followed by a repeat pressure test.

This procedure ensures the water pipe system maintains excellent pressure resistance and sealing performance under normal operating conditions, thereby safeguarding the safety and stability of household water supply.

The test pump is the core component of the entire pipeline inspection system. Bohui manual test pressure pump series: HSY30-5S, HSY30-5, AP50S, and AP50 manual test pumps feature a 12L pump body with 1/2" fittings. Their maximum pressure rating reaches 60BAR (0-6MPA), significantly exceeding standard pressure testing requirements. The AP series meets CE certification standards, making it an indispensable tool for testing plumbing systems during home renovations.