What is the minimum time required for an acceptable test of the water piping system?

• A. 5 Minutes
• B. 15 Minutes
• C. 10 Minutes
• D. 20 Minutes

Answer: (B)

The minimum time for an acceptable test of the water piping system is fifteen minutes. Holding the system under test pressure for this length of time gives enough opportunity for any slow leaks or joints that might not show up right away to become visible. Shorter durations, like five or ten minutes, can miss leaks, while longer ones aren’t required as the minimum standard. During this interval you watch for a stable pressure (no drop) and for any signs of water escaping, confirming the system is leak-free before deeming the test successful.