Water pressure test for rough-in. 55 psi per side?

[markcool]

I'm preparing for my rough-in inspection on the attic remodel.

If I understand correctly, the code calls for pressure of at least 100 psi.

My question is, do I put the gauge at the shower head, where both hot and cold can be on simultaneously? Does that make a difference in pressure?

I have put it on both the hot and cold for the laundry individually, and both sides show 55psi.

Thanks,

Mark

 

[johnjh2o]

Mark if your shower valve is up to code it's a balance pressure valve. If you apply pressure to the hot or cold it will not bypass to the other side of the shower faucet. There is what is called a balancing spool in the cartridge. You must twin the hot and cold together in another location. The easiest is to connect the hot and cold stub-outs on the lav. then you can put your gauge on the shower head.

John

 

[markcool]

Thanks John, that's helpful.

So I could do the same with the laundry, loop them together, then put the gauge on the shower head?

All of my lavs have copper stubout ells, so the laundry's easiest.

 

[phishfood]

Yes. Just so long as the hot and cold sides of the system are joined in some other location than the shower valve, the pressure will reach both sides of the system.

 

[markcool]

Hey Guys,

Now I have a washer hose connecting H and C at the washer location, and my pressure gauge at the shower head is still reading 50-55psi.

What am I doing wrong?

Thanks,

Mark

 

[johnjh2o]

Mark are you using air or some type pump to increase the pressure?

John

 

[markcool]

No, i just hooked up the water lines as described above, and turned on the water.

Is the object to increase the pressure to 110 psi to be sure the system will handle it?

The pressure gauge I bought at the plumbing supply has a valve for pumping air.

Should I drain the system and then pump it til the gauge reads 110?

 

[phishfood]

Leave the system filled with water, turn off the main valve, and use an air compressor to increase the pressure to the 110 PSI.

 

[johnjh2o]

Mark, you have to increase the pressure to what ever is required in your area to pass inspection. Just follow phishfood's instructions.

John

 

[markcool]

Thanks Guys, I appreciate it.