What is the minimum water head that shall be applied to drainage systems during testing?

In plumbing systems, especially regarding drainage, testing is critical to ensure that the system is sealed and can handle the expected load. The minimum water head applied during testing is established to ensure the integrity and functionality of the drainage system when subjected to normal operational pressures and conditions.

Ten feet of water head is a widely accepted figure in plumbing codes and standards, including those referenced in New York City regulations. This specification helps to detect any potential leaks or weaknesses in the system. When water is applied at this height, it simulates real-world conditions that the drainage system will encounter when in use, providing a rigorous test scenario.

Choosing a higher water head, such as 15 or 20 feet, may seem more thorough, but it is often beyond the required testing threshold established by most plumbing codes. Conversely, a lower water head, such as 5 feet, may not provide a sufficient test to ensure that the system can adequately handle its operational demands. Hence, ten feet strikes the necessary balance to ensure that the drainage system is functioning as intended while adhering to regulatory requirements.