Can You Pressure Test That A Guide to Testing Different Pipe Systems
When people hear “pressure testing,” they often picture a large, new water main on a major construction site. While that is a core part of our work, the principles of verifying a pipeline’s integrity can be applied to a much wider and more diverse range of systems.
At Pipe Testing Services (PTS), we regularly get enquiries from facilities managers, engineers, and property owners asking if we can help with their unique system. From commercial heating circuits to swimming pool pipework and industrial gas lines, the answer is almost always yes. This guide explains how the principles of pressure testing are adapted for these different applications.
The Universal Goal: Proving System Integrity
Regardless of the system, the fundamental goal of a pressure test remains the same: to prove that a section of pipework is completely sealed and free from leaks. However, the method we use is carefully tailored to the system’s material, its purpose, and its normal operating conditions.
Beyond Water Mains: Common Systems We Test
The principles of pressure testing can be adapted to a wide variety of systems. Here are some of the common applications where our specialist testing services are used to diagnose problems and ensure integrity.
Commercial Heating Pipework (LTHW)
Assessing the condition of Low-Temperature Hot Water (LTHW) pipework is a common requirement before a major boiler refit or when a sealed heating system is persistently losing pressure.
Gas and Fuel Pipelines
Ensuring the safety and integrity of gas and fuel lines is a critical requirement for any commercial property. The joints must be proven to be 100% leak-free.
Suction Lines (Pools, Ponds, and Industrial)
A common and frustrating problem with systems like swimming pools or industrial pumps is air being drawn into a suction line. This is a different kind of leak, where the pipe is failing under negative pressure (a vacuum).
- The Method: To find a leak on a suction line, a standard pressure test is not the right tool. Instead, we can use a vacuum test to see if the pipe can hold a vacuum without drawing in air. Alternatively, a low-pressure air test combined with a tracer gas survey can find the precise location where air is entering the system.
Solving a Problem When You Don't Know the Cause
Sometimes, you don’t know what service you need; you just have a problem. It could be persistent damp that seems to get worse after rain, or good water pressure at the property boundary but very low flow at the taps.
In these situations, a direct pressure test might not be the right first step. Our job is to help you find the source of the issue. The most effective way to visually inspect the inside of a pipe to find a blockage, a collapse, or a crack that could be the root cause of your problem is with a Clean Water CCTV Survey. This diagnostic-first approach ensures the correct solution is applied.
Choosing the Right Partner for Your Unique System
The next time you are looking at a pipe system—whether it’s for heating, gas, drainage, or a specialised industrial process—and wonder if its integrity can be verified, the answer is yes. Choosing a specialist contractor like Pipe Testing Services means you get:
- Expert Diagnosis: We don't just perform tests; we help you understand your problem and select the right diagnostic approach.
- A Complete Solution: We offer a full range of services, from initial diagnostic CCTV surveys to the final pressure test and certification.
- Peace of Mind: You get a reliable, professional service with clear communication, ensuring you have the information you need to move forward.
If you have a unique or challenging pipeline that needs testing, or you have a problem you can’t identify, contact our expert team today.
To discuss your requirements, schedule a consultation, or request a quote, please contact us at:
- Phone: 01922 451646
- Email: enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk
- Address: Unit 27 Birchbrook Industrial Estate, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 0DJ
Testing Different Pipe Systems - FAQs
What is the difference between a hydrostatic and a pneumatic test?
A hydrostatic test uses water (a liquid), which is incompressible and safer for high-pressure tests on liquid systems. A pneumatic test uses air or nitrogen (a gas), which is compressible and used for systems where water is not suitable, such as gas lines.
Can you pressure test old or existing pipework?
Yes. Pressure testing is a key method for assessing the condition and integrity of aging pipework. The test pressure and method are adjusted to suit the age and material of the pipe.
I only need a small section of pipe tested. Is it cost-effective?
Absolutely. We regularly carry out tests on small sections of pipe, from a few metres of new installation to a single vessel. We can provide a tailored, cost-effective quote for any size of project.
What happens if a system fails the test?
A failure provides a definitive diagnosis that a leak or weakness exists. Our technicians can then assist in locating the source of the failure so that a targeted repair can be made before a re-test is conducted.