The tightness of the installation is a key element of safety, especially when we are talking about the gas installation. It is an extremely important issue related to avoiding potentially dangerous situations, such as gas leaks or explosions. Therefore, checking the tightness of the gas installation is not only a legal requirement, but above all, care for the life and health of users.
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When is it worth performing an installation tightness test?
A tightness test should be performed when a new gas installation is being made, which is only just being put into service. Another situation is the performance of any reconstruction, because any changes must be verified whether they have not affected the leakage of the system. A similar procedure is performed when renovation work is being carried out. Performing a tightness test of the gas installation is particularly important, because in this case even small leaks can be extremely dangerous to health and life.
Previously, so-called pressure tests were performed using a water jet, but this solution is now being abandoned because it carries a risk. The use of water injected under pressure can result in water remaining in the pipes, and the humid environment is an ideal place for the development of bacteria, such as legionella. It poses a real threat to human health. The second problem related to the use of water is winter, or more precisely, a drop in temperature. The water remaining in the system freezes during frosts, which can lead to damage to the system. Therefore, tests are currently more often performed using compressed air.
Correctly performing a tightness test in a heating installation
Although air is used much more often, the water test has not been completely eliminated. To assess the heating system, certain accessories will be necessary, including fittings or clamps, thanks to which the pressure test will be effective and safe.
When carrying out a tightness test, remember that the minimum pressure that will allow for an actual assessment should be at least 6 bar, although it is recommended that this value is the maximum working pressure of the system + 2 bar.
First, a preliminary test is performed, during which the pressure is gradually raised to the established test pressure value, and this procedure is repeated three times, at 10-minute intervals. Then, for the next 30 minutes, observation is carried out for the occurrence of any leaks and leaks. The test is considered successful if after half an hour the pressure drop in the system has dropped by no more than 0.6 bar.
After successfully completing the preliminary test, you can move on to the main part. In the initial stage, the pressure in the system is raised to the test pressure level for 2 hours. The exception is underfloor heating, for which the observation time is 24 hours. During this time, its value cannot drop by more than 0.2 bar. It should not be forgotten that a visual inspection of all connections in the installation will also be necessary, and if any are found, the test should be stopped, irregularities removed and started again.
Air tightness test
The pressure test can also be performed using air. Here it is worth starting with a pressure of 0.2-0.5 bar, this is a safe value, allowing to avoid the problem of pushing out the fittings if they are not properly fastened. Where the clamp is incorrect, a distinct whistle will be heard. The fastening will have to be corrected and only then proceed to the proper test.
The tightness test of the installation is carried out in stages. In the first step, the pressure level is referred to a level no higher than 3 bar. This value must be controlled, which is why it is worth getting a dial manometer, characterized by high measurement precision. The tightness test of the gas installation begins with a preliminary test, which allows for an initial assessment. A positive result gives grounds to believe that conducting further activities will be safe. The process is analogous to the described procedure using water.
Application and use of the leak test plug
Both in a new gas installation and after reconstruction, the right accessories are very helpful, such as a leak test plug . This is an exceptionally practical and functional solution that allows for efficient and convenient testing. Made of durable, solid materials that will withstand all leak tests. A pressure test using a plug is definitely more efficient. This small gadget is used to plug pipes not only in the heating system, but also in the domestic hot water system.
Leak test plugs at the Onninen wholesaler
Gas sealing plugs are available in several versions at the Onninen wholesaler. In terms of size, it is worth paying attention to whether it matches the size of the pipe, and each of them can be blue, orange or red. Individual products also differ in the material from which they are made.
One of the proposals is the Onnline 16x2 red leak test plug . This is a solution dedicated to plugging Pex/Al/PEX, as well as PERT/Al/PERT type pipes. They help protect the building installation from building dirt getting into its interior, including during installation and moving pipes through walls to other rooms. The offer also includes plugs such as the Onnline 20x2 blue leak test plug andthe Onnline 16x2 orange leak test plug .
At Onninen you will also find the Agam red brass leak test plug , the thread of which is made of brass. It is exceptionally durable and functional, so it can be used to test gas installations.