Knowing whether you have a leak in your premises is challenging unless you conduct frequent pipe inspections. Remember, pipes are made using long-lasting materials but do not last forever. The weight of your building and soil can make pipes break and rot, so you need a hydraulic plumbing test.
A hydrostatic plumbing test is used to determine leaks in a pressurized system, and it mainly tests fuel tanks, gas cylinders, and boilers. This test entails filling your drainage system with fluid before it is pressurized to test its integrity. Observation is the next step, and any drop in the liquid level signifies a leak.
The hydrostatic plumbing test is non-destructive, provided you follow the set rules. Homeowners should follow the following recommendations;
- Use of approved SOPs
- Get adequate training on how to use the equipment
- Avoid over-pressuring their system
- Choose the most appropriate test depending on the system’s components.
Below we discuss everything you need to know about the hydrostatic plumbing test.
How does this Test Work in a Sewer System?
Trees constantly seek reliable water sources; they find moisture by sending roots in different directions. Sewer pipes are an excellent source, as microscopic root tendrils are sent to any opening, which then causes pipe breakage.
Hydrostatic plumbing tests enable plumbers to detect leaks, and it begins by locating the cleanout. The plumber then waits for the water level to drop, a move that signifies water leakage.
When you Should Conduct a Plumbing Test
A hydrostatic plumbing test should be conducted immediately if you suspect a leak in your premises. This test can be carried out on the drain lines or water lines, and isolating testing is carried out after the leak is confirmed.
The signs of a leaking slab include the following;
Hot Floor Spots
Hot floor spots are the first sign of a leaking slab, and you should contact a plumber immediately. Slab leaks mainly occur from hot water lines, and it makes the floor hot or warm to touch.
High Water Bills
Homeowners should check their water bills every month to detect an unusual rise in the bills. A sudden rise in water bills without an increase in usage shows you might have a leak.
Sound of Flowing Water
Even though it is normal to hear water run through your drainage system, whooshing water should call for immediate repair. This unwanted sound might be from a pipe leakage, and you should call a plumber to restore its normal state.
Conducting a plumbing pressure test before selling or buying your property is advisable to ensure you are on the same page with the system’s condition. Homeowners need the following supplies to carry out this testing;
- Hose- a hose is essential for filling the plumbing system with water; they are available in various types, and you should pick a high-quality material for accurate results.
- Hydrostatic pump- this test pump puts pressure into the system while giving homeowners a pressure gauge to determine whether the pressure is escaping.
- Endoscope- plumbing endoscopes are flexible, long, and have a camera installed at their end. Most models have transmitters that enable homeowners to determine where the problem is.
How to Carry Out a Hydrostatic Plumbing Test
Homeowners can easily carry out a hydrostatic plumbing test using the following steps;
Ensure the Pressure Levels are Correct
You are advised against using too much pressure as it might cause damage to your system. At the same time, you want to produce more than the stipulated operating pressure to make sure your system can handle it.
Fill the Sewer Line
The next step when conducting a hydrostatic plumbing test should be filling the sewer line. To achieve this, you should put inflatable balls in the cleanout and turn the water on for around twenty minutes.
Determine Leakage Existence with a Test Pressure
At this step, homeowners should be able to tell whether there is a leakage. A pump should be applied to the system to generate the right pressure amount for the plumbing unit.
Locate the Leak
Here, the homeowner should be able to detect the leak via isolation testing. This happens by isolating various parts of your plumbing unit and applying pressure to know where the leak exists.
However, you might need additional help if you have a deep or slab leak in hard-to-reach areas.
Use an Endoscope
Homeowners can put an endoscope in their basement or clean out to know what is happening in the drainage system. The camera might miss out on small leaks, but it will help you know where the problem is.
How to Choose the Best Plumber
As stated above, homeowners can easily carry out a hydrostatic plumbing test, but certain cases require help from a certified plumber. These individuals have the best experience and knowledge to eliminate leaks, thus saving you on utility bills.
Below we discuss how to choose the best plumber before a hydrostatic test;
Experience
Undoubtedly, experience should be your first consideration before hiring a plumber. A well-experienced individual has handled similar cases before, meaning they will easily solve your plumbing unit’s issue. \Longevity does not always guarantee a flawless job, but it surely does help.
Communication
Communication is another important consideration before hiring a plumber. First impressions are not enough, as you want to know how fast the individual will respond to your issues in emergencies.
Open communication is important throughout the project; you should ask your preferred candidates a few questions to determine it.
Credentials
Checking the plumber’s experience is not enough, as you must also ensure they are certified by the necessary boards. Most plumbers have social media channels and websites that will help you determine their authenticity.
A review section on their pages allows you to determine how they handle their past clients, among others.
Final Thoughts
The plumbing unit is one of a household’s most important yet ignored units, and most homeowners remember it after significant damage occurs. The above article has discussed everything you need to know about a hydrostatic plumbing test, and you can reach out for more.