What is the minimum duration required for a water system pressure test?

The minimum duration required for a water system pressure test is 15 minutes. This duration is specified in the plumbing codes to ensure that the system is thoroughly checked for leaks and can withstand the required pressure without failure. A testing period of 15 minutes provides sufficient time to verify the integrity of joints, fittings, and the overall system under pressure, helping prevent potential issues after the system is put into operation.

Longer testing durations, while useful in certain contexts, are not necessary for initial pressure testing and may lead to unnecessary delays in construction or installation processes. Therefore, the standard of 15 minutes strikes a balance between ensuring reliability and efficiency in plumbing systems, aligning with code requirements.