pressure test new system?

ChrisJ

Once I'm finally done piping the new boiler in I'm wondering if I should pressure test it or not.



All pipes are really tight and I used Ward cast fittings.  Most fittings I used Megaloc dope alone.  Any questionable connections like into the old mains I used the Megaloc and blue monster tape.  I have king valves and a return valve so testing is possible.



I can setup to do a pressure test but its kind of a pain.  What should I do?  Take the time to setup and test it with air or just fillerup and light the fire?

nicholas bonham-carter

testing for leaks

can you just overfill the boiler up to the dry return, and leave it over night. thats how we did the test.--nbc

Jamie Hall

You could...

pressure test the near boiler piping, if you really wanted to -- but I like nbc's idea.



Do not pressure test the rest of the system -- neither traps nor vents play nicely with pressures much over 5 psi.

ChrisJ

ok

So I guess its safe to say the pros don't usually pressure test the block and near boiler piping?



I just want to try and follow what the pros do.  I figure I should be safe that way for the most part.

Long Beach Ed

The Block

We pressure test each boiler before we install it.  We cap the fittings and pressurize it. 



Over the years we've installed hundreds of Burnham boilers - they are our favorates.  Never found a leaker. 



We don't pressurize anything else, unless there is a hot water loop on a steam boiler.  We'll pressurize that too. 



Wet returns?  If they are under the ground we assume they leak.