Pressure Testing

Certain local codes require that the circulation system be pressure tested with a proof pressure before being commissioned into service or before allowing construction to progress to the next stage.

WARNING — Improperly pressure testing a circulation system can involve significant risk of property damage or severe personal injury or death. Circulation systems store energy when pressure tested due to the elastic nature of the materials used in construction and due to the compressibility of air that may be contained in the system. The instructions below should be considered a guide only. Each installation should be considered a unique situation that should be carefully investigated for risk.

WARNING — Never test this equipment with air pressure even if specified by the local code. Even low levels of air pressure result in tremendous storage of energy that can instantaneously be released if a system failure occurs. This instantaneous release of energy can cause failed components to be accelerated to high velocities and to travel distances of 100 feet or more. These components could cause severe personal injury or death if they were to strike a person.

1.Understand the local code. The intent of the code may be to ensure that the piping system with its many bonded joints is leak free. Piping systems typically have a higher pressure capability than the other system components such as the pump or filter. Do not pressure test the pump unless the code specifically requires this.

2.Verify that each component in the system is designed to meet the local code test pressure. Most components should be marked with a maximum operating pressure. If a component is not marked consult the Owner’s Instructions that came with the component or consult the manufacturer.

3.Verify that the pressure test will be conducted within the operating temperature listed on the components that make up the circulation system. If no maximum operating temperature is listed then it may be necessary to review the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for this information. It is common practice for plastic components to be pressure rated at 72 degrees F. and then derated for temperatures greater than this.

4.Use only a high quality pressure gage that is certified to be accurate for the pressure for which the test is going to be conducted. Do not rely on the pressure gage included with the filtration system as it may not be sufficiently accurate to conduct a pressure test for the system. Please note that the pressure in the system will vary depending on where the pressure is taken due to the weight of the water.

5.Ensure that all air will be evacuated from the system when the water pressure is applied to the system. This will require that all air bleeders on any equipment are open. It also may be necessary to remove some lids or covers on system equipment such as the pump strainer lid to prevent air from being trapped in the system. In addition, there may be other areas of the circulation system where air may be trapped. Do not connect water pressure to the system until you are certain that air will be totally evacuated.

6.Determine the appropriate location in the system to apply the test water pressure. Consider the place in the system that will best ensure that all air will be displaced when water is introduced.

EQ Series Pump Installation and User’s Guide