Hydrostatic Testing

What is Hydrostatic Testing?

A hydrostatic test, is the most effective method in determining if you have any leaks on the sewer system in your home. A hydrostatic test ensures that the sewer system is free from leaks and capable of withstanding the pressure it will encounter during normal use. These tests are crucial for identifying and addressing any potential weaknesses or defects in your system.

ABC Plumbing diagnostic tests take a number of different approaches in order to make the right repairs. We use static leak testing to determine the exact location of leaks or failures within your sewer system, as well as video camera inspections that give us a closer look at cleanouts, roof vents, and drains.

How Do I Know if I Need a Hydrostatic?

Hydrostatic tests are effective at determining when there is damage to your pressurized system, and there are several instances where you may find yourself needing to schedule one. Here are a few examples of times you should schedule a hydrostatic test.

• Frequent Sewer Backups: If you find yourself having to call a plumber for frequent blockages or backups, your sewer system may be compromised. A constant need for drain cleaning is often a prerequisite for a hydrostatic test.
• Foundation Repairs (Before & After): Hydrostatic testing is a common requirement when it comes to foundation repairs. Foundation companies will likely want the sewer system tested for leaks before and after foundation repairs are completed.
• Selling or Buying a Home:  A home is a long-term investment of time and money, so it’s important to make sure yours stays in good condition. If you’re in the process of buying a home, you may not be as familiar with its infrastructure as you should be. A hydrostatic test will provide peace of mind that your pipes are ready to do their job properly and without trouble. By catching these issues before investing in a home, you could save yourself thousands in potential repair costs.
• After a Plumbing Repair: Leaks happen, no matter how much we may wish they won’t. Luckily, when this happens, you can count on professional plumbers like the ones at ABC Plumbing to provide repairs. After these repairs are complete, a hydrostatic test can be done to confirm that everything is now working as it should!
• Suspected Leaks or Water Damage: If you suspect that your plumbing system has a leak, or you've noticed signs of water damage such as water stains, mold growth, or dampness, a hydrostatic test may be the first step to locating the issue. Please note we have trusted relationships with restoration companies in the event you do have water damage to your property.

How is a Hydrostatic Test Performed?

The first step in our assessment is a video camera inspection. If the video camera inspection shows a leak in your sewer system, we’ll move forward with hydrostatic pressure testing. During this process, we apply pressure to the sewer system, block off sections of the system with inflatable test balls, and fill the pipes with water.

Generally, we’ll fill the pipes with water up to the level of the lowest open drain, which is often at floor level. Your technician will identify this point beforehand in order to avoid overfilling and flooding. If the water doesn’t rise to floor level once the pipes are filled, or if the water level drops immediately after filling the pipes, that indicates leaks or failures in your sewer system.

Performing tests like hydrostatic pressure testing helps us make accurate assessments and perform efficient repairs. For sewer leaks, our repair methodology will depend on whether your property has older, iron-based pipes or more durable PVC piping.