D-4 Testing Sanitary and Storm Drainage Systems Introduction
Code requires drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipes to be tested using an acceptable test method. The test must be present on the piping system during inspection. An improperly installed joint in a drainage pipe or vent could allow unsanitary conditions to occur inside a building and allow toxic gases to enter. If an alteration to the system occurs after the test and inspection, the piping system will have to be re-tested and inspected.
Learning Objectives
After completing the chapters in this section, you should be able to:
- Describe code and requirements used to test DWV systems.
- Describe methods used to test DWV systems.
Resources
You will be required to reference the most current National Plumbing Code.
Terminology
The following terms will be used throughout this section. A complete list of terms for this section can be found in the Glossary.
- air pressure test: A test that checks for leaks by filling pipes with pressurized air and observing if the pressure drops. (Section D-4.1)
- ball test: A test that checks for proper slope and obstructions in pipes by rolling a dense ball through the system. (Section D-4.1)
- final test: A test performed after fixtures are installed to make sure the whole plumbing system is working properly and has no leaks. (Section D-4.1)
- one-time-only test caps: Disposable caps used to seal pipe openings during leak testing. they are designed for single-use applications and are typically removed and discarded after testing is complete. (Section D-4.2)
- open centre test plug: A type of test plug that is used to seal pipes during testing. It has a hole in the middle, so tools can be used to adjust or measure the pressure inside the pipe without taking the plug off. (Section D-4.2)
- prefabricated system: A plumbing system or part of a system that is built somewhere else (not at the building site) and then brought in and put into place. (Section D-4.1)
- propeller-style blower: A type of fan that blows air to test pipes or systems. The fan blades are connected directly to the motor, and it helps push air through the system to check for leaks. (Section D-4.2)
- smoke testing: A method used to detect leaks in a drainage system using thick smoke. The smoke is blown into the pipes, and if it escapes from any area other than the designated openings, it means there’s a leak. (Section D-4.2)
- smoke candle: A small device that creates smoke when lit. It’s used in smoke testing to help find leaks in pipes. When the candle is lit, the smoke is blown into the pipes to see if it escapes anywhere. (Section D-4.2)
- smoke fluid system: A machine that creates smoke by turning a special fluid into smoke. This is used in smoke testing to check for leaks in pipes, just like the smoke candle. (Section D-4.2)
- squirrel-cage blower: A type of blower that has a round fan inside it, kind of like a hamster wheel, to push air through a system. It can move a lot of air and is good for testing large pipes or systems.
- test plug: A device used to seal pipe openings during leak testing. Test plugs come in different types, including inflatable and expansion plugs, and help keep air or water sealed inside the system. (Section D-4.2)
- water pressure test: A test that checks for leaks by filling pipes with water and keeping them pressurized for a set amount of time. (Section D-4.1)
- wye fitting: A plumbing fitting shaped like a “y” that allows one pipe to join another at a 45-degree angle. it is commonly used to connect branch lines to a main drain line, helping to maintain smooth water flow and reduce clogs. (Section D-4.2)
