Question 1

What is pressure testing?

Accepted Answer

Pressure testing is a non-destructive method of verifying the integrity of piping systems, building envelopes, and other sealed systems by applying controlled pressure and monitoring for leaks or pressure loss. This ensures systems meet building code requirements and function safely before they are concealed or put into service.

Question 2

Why is pressure testing required?

Accepted Answer

Pressure testing is mandated by the BC Building Code to ensure plumbing, HVAC, gas, and other systems are installed correctly and free from leaks before being concealed. This prevents costly repairs, water damage, gas leaks, and ensures occupant safety. Building inspectors require passing test results before issuing occupancy permits.

Question 3

How long does a pressure test take?

Accepted Answer

Test duration varies by system type and size. Simple residential plumbing tests typically take 2-3 hours including setup, pressurization, and monitoring. Commercial systems may require 4-8 hours. Building envelope tests can take a full day. The actual pressure hold time is usually 15 minutes to 4 hours depending on code requirements.

Question 4

What happens if a system fails the pressure test?

Accepted Answer

If a system fails, we identify the leak location, document the failure, and provide a detailed report. The contractor must repair the issue and schedule a re-test. Common failures include loose fittings, damaged pipes, or improper installations. We work with contractors to expedite repairs and re-testing.

Question 5

Can I be present during the test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, property owners and contractors are welcome to observe the testing process. We encourage attendance as it provides valuable insight into your system's integrity. We explain each step, show the equipment readings, and answer questions throughout the process.

Question 6

Do you provide documentation for building inspectors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide comprehensive test reports that meet all BC Building Code documentation requirements. Reports include test date, pressure readings, hold times, pass/fail results, equipment calibration certificates, and technician certifications. These reports are accepted by all municipal building departments in BC.

Question 7

What pressure is used for plumbing tests?

Accepted Answer

Residential plumbing systems are typically tested at 100-150 PSI for water lines, though code requires testing at 1.5 times the working pressure or minimum 100 PSI. Drainage systems use air or water at 5 PSI. Commercial systems may require different pressures based on the system design and building height.

Question 8

How long must plumbing hold pressure?

Accepted Answer

BC Building Code requires water supply piping to hold test pressure for a minimum of 15 minutes without any pressure loss. Drainage systems must hold 5 PSI air pressure for 15 minutes. We typically extend monitoring to 30-60 minutes to ensure complete system integrity.

Question 9

Can you test with water or air?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can perform both hydrostatic (water) and pneumatic (air) tests. Water testing is more accurate for detecting small leaks and is preferred for supply lines. Air testing is faster, cleaner, and often used for drainage systems or when water damage risk is a concern. We recommend the appropriate method based on your system.

Question 10

What if my renovation only affects one bathroom?

Accepted Answer

Even partial plumbing renovations require pressure testing of the new or modified sections. We can isolate and test only the affected areas if proper shut-off valves are in place. However, inspectors may require testing the entire system if it's been significantly altered or if isolation isn't possible.

Question 11

Do I need to test PEX plumbing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all plumbing materials including PEX, copper, CPVC, and PVC must be pressure tested per BC Building Code. While PEX is reliable, testing verifies proper connection integrity, identifies manufacturing defects, and ensures compliance. Many PEX failures occur at fittings, not the pipe itself.

Question 12

Can radiant floor heating be pressure tested?

Accepted Answer

Yes, radiant heating systems must be pressure tested before concrete is poured or flooring installed. We test at higher pressures (typically 100-150 PSI) for extended periods (24-48 hours) to detect even minor leaks that could cause catastrophic damage once encased. This is critical as repairs after installation are extremely costly.

Question 13

What is building envelope pressure testing?

Accepted Answer

Building envelope testing (blower door test) measures air leakage through the building's exterior shell. A calibrated fan temporarily seals in a doorway and depressurizes the building to 50 Pascals. We measure airflow required to maintain pressure, calculating air changes per hour (ACH) to verify the building meets energy efficiency requirements.

Question 14

When is envelope testing required?

Accepted Answer

Envelope testing is required for new construction to meet BC Energy Step Code and EnerGuide ratings. It's also needed for major renovations affecting more than 50% of envelope area, energy efficiency rebate programs, and high-performance building certifications like Passive House or LEED.

Question 15

What is a good air leakage rate?

Accepted Answer

BC Building Code requires maximum 3.5 ACH@50Pa for most residential buildings. Step Code 3 requires ≤2.5 ACH@50Pa, Step 4 ≤1.5 ACH@50Pa, and Step 5 (Passive House) ≤0.6 ACH@50Pa. Lower numbers indicate better air sealing and energy efficiency.

Question 16

How do I prepare for an envelope test?

Accepted Answer

Close all windows and exterior doors. Open all interior doors. Ensure HVAC systems are off. Remove exhaust fan covers. Have weatherstripping and caulking ready for identified leaks. The building should be at lock-up stage with all penetrations sealed. We provide a detailed preparation checklist when scheduling.

Question 17

Can you find where air is leaking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, during the test we use theatrical smoke, infrared cameras, and visual inspection to identify specific leak locations. Common problem areas include electrical outlets, plumbing penetrations, rim joists, attic hatches, and window/door interfaces. We provide a detailed map of leak locations in our report.

Question 18

What if my building fails the envelope test?

Accepted Answer

We identify and document all leak locations. Most failures can be remedied with additional caulking, spray foam, or weatherstripping. We provide specific recommendations for each leak location. After repairs, we return for re-testing at a reduced rate since setup is faster the second time.

Question 19

How are gas lines pressure tested?

Accepted Answer

Gas lines are tested with compressed air or nitrogen at 3 times the working pressure (typically 45 PSI for residential systems) for a minimum of 30 minutes. We use highly sensitive manometers to detect even minimal pressure loss. This is more rigorous than plumbing tests due to safety concerns with gas leaks.

Question 20

Can gas lines be tested with natural gas?

Accepted Answer

No, never. Testing must be performed with compressed air or nitrogen only. Using natural gas for testing creates serious explosion and asphyxiation risks. Only after successful air testing and inspector approval is the system charged with natural gas by the gas utility.

Question 21

Do propane systems need different testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, propane systems typically require testing at 20 PSI for 10 minutes, then reduced to operating pressure (11" water column) for final leak detection using soap solution. Propane regulations are governed by CSA B149 and enforced by Technical Safety BC. Testing requirements differ from natural gas systems.

Question 22

Who can test gas lines in BC?

Accepted Answer

Gas line testing must be performed by qualified technicians familiar with Technical Safety BC requirements and CSA B149 standards. Our technicians are certified and experienced in residential and commercial gas testing. Test reports must be submitted to Technical Safety BC and the local building department.

Question 23

What happens if a gas line fails?

Accepted Answer

Gas line failures are treated with high priority due to safety concerns. We immediately identify leak locations using soap solution and electronic leak detectors. The contractor must repair all leaks and we return for re-testing the same day or next day whenever possible. The system cannot be used until it passes.

Question 24

What systems require testing in commercial buildings?

Accepted Answer

Commercial buildings require testing of potable water supply, drainage systems, fire suppression piping, HVAC ductwork, commercial kitchen hood systems, medical gas piping, industrial process piping, and building envelope. Each system has specific test pressures and durations per applicable codes and standards.

Question 25

How long do commercial tests take?

Accepted Answer

Commercial testing timelines vary significantly by building size and system complexity. Small retail spaces may complete in one day. Large commercial buildings may require 3-5 days for all systems. High-rise buildings or complex industrial facilities may need 1-2 weeks. We provide detailed scheduling during project planning.

Question 26

Do you work after hours or weekends?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer flexible scheduling including evenings, weekends, and holidays to accommodate commercial construction timelines and minimize disruption to occupied buildings. After-hours testing is common for occupied facilities where daytime testing would disrupt operations. Additional fees may apply for premium scheduling.

Question 27

Can you coordinate with our general contractor?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We work closely with general contractors, project managers, and building inspectors to coordinate testing schedules. We attend progress meetings, provide advance notice of testing requirements, and adjust our schedule to match construction milestones. Clear communication prevents delays.

Question 28

Do you test fire suppression systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we test fire suppression piping including sprinkler systems, standpipes, and fire hydrant lines. Testing follows NFPA 13 standards at 200 PSI hydrostatic pressure or 40 PSI pneumatic pressure for 2 hours. We coordinate with fire system contractors and fire marshals for final acceptance testing.

Question 29

What about industrial process piping?

Accepted Answer

We test industrial process piping for various applications including compressed air, steam, chemicals, food processing, and manufacturing. Test pressures are determined by system design specifications and applicable codes (ASME B31.3, etc.). We have experience with specialty systems and high-pressure applications up to 3000 PSI.

Question 30

Do you test municipal water mains?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we test municipal water main installations per AWWA standards at 150 PSI or 1.5 times working pressure for 2 hours minimum. We work with municipalities, utility contractors, and engineers to verify new main installations, main replacements, and system expansions meet specifications.

Question 31

Can you test sanitary and storm sewers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we perform air testing and hydrostatic testing of sanitary and storm sewer pipes per ASTM standards. Air testing at 3.5 PSI for 5 minutes is most common. We also conduct mandrel testing, camera inspections, and deflection tests as required by municipal specifications.

Question 32

What about subdivision services?

Accepted Answer

We test all underground utilities in new subdivisions including water mains, sanitary sewers, storm drains, and sometimes gas distribution. Testing is coordinated with developer schedules and municipal inspectors. We understand subdivision standards for Metro Vancouver municipalities and Fraser Valley communities.

Question 33

Do you provide CCTV inspection services?

Accepted Answer

While our primary focus is pressure testing, we partner with certified CCTV inspection companies when video inspection is required in conjunction with pressure testing. This is common for municipal acceptance of new sewer systems or troubleshooting failed pressure tests.

Question 34

How much does pressure testing cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary based on system type, size, location, and complexity. Residential plumbing tests typically range from $300-$600. Building envelope tests start at $400. Commercial projects are quoted individually. We provide free quotes for all projects. Call 604-239-9934 or email info@Anyleak.ca for pricing.

Question 35

How far in advance should I schedule?

Accepted Answer

For residential projects, we recommend scheduling 5-7 days in advance. Commercial projects should be scheduled 2-3 weeks ahead. Rush service is available for urgent needs. Peak construction season (May-September) requires longer lead times. Contact us early in your project planning.

Question 36

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve the entire Greater Vancouver area including Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, New Westminster, Coquitlam, North Shore (North Vancouver and West Vancouver), Delta, and Langley. We also travel to the Fraser Valley, Squamish, Whistler, and the Gulf Islands for larger commercial projects.

Question 37

Do you offer emergency testing services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer emergency and rush testing services when scheduling delays threaten project timelines or occupancy permits. Emergency service includes same-day and next-day testing when possible. Additional fees apply for rush service due to schedule adjustments and overtime labor.

Question 38

Can I get a quote without seeing the project?

Accepted Answer

For standard residential projects, we can often provide preliminary quotes over the phone or email based on square footage, system type, and location. Commercial projects typically require a site visit or detailed plan review for accurate quoting. We offer free quotes and consultations.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Pressure Testing

Plumbing Pressure Testing

Building Envelope Testing

Gas Line Testing

Commercial & Industrial Testing

Municipal & Infrastructure

Costs & Scheduling

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