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4
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.
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.
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 ft (30.5 meters) 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°F (22°C). 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.
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.
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 ft
(30.5 meters) or more. These components could cause severe personal injury or death if they were to strike a person.
7. Slowly apply the water pressure and allow the water to flow out all of the openings intended for air to escape.
Close the openings beginning at the lowest level first and progressing to the highest level. Do not close any
opening until you are sure that air is completely out of that part of the system.
8. Allow the pressure to slowly build once all of the air openings are closed. Close the valve between the water
supply and circulation system to isolate the system from the supply pressure.
EQ SERIES® High Performance Commercial Pump Installation and User' s Guide
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