2 ways to pressurize a heating system and what are their differences

The heating system in private houses differs significantly from city apartments due to its complexity; it may contain several circuits of heated floors and heat exchange radiators with a large number of connections. After installation, a performance test procedure is mandatory; for this test, a technique called pressure testing of the heating system is used.

To carry out crimping work, special automatic or manual equipment is used; if it is available, the test will not cause any particular difficulties even for an unprepared homeowner. The only thing you should know when pumping water or air into the system is the pressure limits and time intervals for checking a specific heating network, which are specified in the regulations.

Fig.1 Hydraulic test process in the basement of a building

What is crimping and why is it needed?

After installing the entire heating system, it must be checked for functionality and resistance to high pressure. To do this, high pressure is created inside it using water or air. Most often, when checking, this indicator is exceeded by 2 times the normal operating pressure. This whole process shows what pressure testing of a heating system is.

To carry out this test, special equipment is used that can operate in manual or automatic mode. During the inspection, the performance of pipes, boilers, underfloor heating systems or radiator circuits, as well as their connections and pumps for moving water, is analyzed. If the test was successful and all joints remained sealed, then the system can be handed over for operation and can be used in normal mode for a long time.

Testing heated floors Source stopradiators.ru

Features of equipment operation

Practice has shown that the use of devices of this class allows one to avoid many possible problems during the further operation of equipment that is part of utility networks for various purposes. Experienced craftsmen recommend performing crimp testing in the following cases:

• If corrosion damage to the pipeline is detected, deformation in the areas between the fastening points.
• Before the start of a new operating season.
• When putting pipelines, heating networks, tanks into operation.
• After completing a set of repair measures, replace individual components of the system.

Please note that the current operating rules for utility networks and construction standards regulate the need and frequency of pressure testing for various cases. In addition to the operating instructions for the equipment, before operating the pressure test pump, it is worth studying these regulatory documents.

When is pressure testing carried out?

Hydraulic tests of the heating system are carried out both for new pipes that have just been installed, and for old ones, to check their resistance to pressure changes. The rules for the use of power installations from the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation (clause 9.2.12) indicate the standards for conducting inspections and how often they need to be carried out. Flushing and pressure testing of the heating system is done in 3 cases:

• Before the system is handed over for operation or before the heated floor is poured or pipes are installed, the first run is carried out. It is needed to check the system for leaks before it is covered with concrete or other materials, so that after startup they are not damaged by water. It is recommended to carry out an additional (second) check immediately after sealing the system. This will allow you to understand whether damage or pressure points appeared on the pipes during installation.

An example of an open system Source vsks24.ru

• After the end of each heating season, the pipeline should be pressure tested so that there are no problems if it is put into operation unexpectedly. Also, an additional check should be done before the start of cold weather.
• If the system has been repaired or has been idle for a long time, it is necessary to conduct an additional test for stability and leakage. Before doing this, you should drain the old water or liquid that is poured inside the pipes.

All tests are necessary in order to avoid repairs or unnecessary expenses during active use of the system. Most often these are the winter months, when the heating season begins.

Example of a leak Source www.4brothersbuyhouses.com

Why is hydro testing necessary?

Hydrotesting – checking the integrity and tightness of the heating main. Testing allows you to timely detect leaks and gaps at the points of threaded connections of fittings and battery connections, which can lead to leakage and flooding. Hydraulic tests are a mandatory measure at the stage of preparing pipelines for commissioning.

Important! If there is no certificate of testing the system in the building, the heat supply organization has the right to refuse to supply heat to the system.

The companies operating the structure are informed about the period of testing. The process is carried out by specialized companies whose employees have the necessary qualifications. Preparation of heat supply systems includes pressure testing of the main line and flushing of pipelines.

System Test Codes and Regulations

After familiarizing yourself with what “pressure testing of the heating system” is, you should understand the rules and conditions for its implementation:

1. The air temperature around the pipes should not be below 0 °C outdoors and +5 °C indoors. If it does not meet the standards, then the test can be carried out only in emergency cases.
2. After checking, there should be no condensation on the welds, as well as leaks in all joints or heating equipment.
3. The pressure inside the heating circuit should not drop below 0.2 bar within 5 minutes, and for panel systems - 0.1 bar (atmospheres) within 15 minutes.
4. During the test, the pressure inside a system that has metal pipes should not drop by more than 0.5 bar within 10 minutes, and for plastic pipes it should not drop by more than 0.6 bar in the initial 30 minutes and 0 .2 bar for 2 hours.
5. If the system is tested not with water, but with air, then the pressure drop should not exceed 0.2 bar in the first 5 minutes.

Checking circuits with air Source blogspot.com
The pressure in pipes and heating devices when pressure testing the system should not be higher than the maximum permissible value for the components and materials of which it consists. Also, the pressure must be higher than 0.6 MPa and exceed the working pressure by no less than 50%. All places that will be hidden after wiring must be checked before finishing activities. If the pressure inside the system begins to drop, then you need to find the leak and seal it. After this, the test should be resumed.

For pipelines with valves, you need to make 2 full turns of the handle before starting the test. Heating devices that consist of sections and are not factory assembled must be crimped on site in the same way as large component parts. All system checks should be carried out before wrapping the pipes with thermal insulation, as this may make it difficult to find a leak.

Pipes with insulation Source ostroymaterialah.ru

If the pipeline and its components have passed all tests, then this must be recorded in the heating system pressure test report. It is also recommended to test it for proper heat distribution and uniform heating of the components. To do this, keep the water temperature inside the system at least +60 °C for 7 hours. If it is not possible to carry out these checks in the summer, then they are postponed until the heating devices are connected or the heating season.

Checking the pressure in the system Source edinayauk.rf

Rating of quality crimpers for 2021

Our top list is compiled based on real reviews, it takes into account the opinions of customers familiar with the product, its functions, and features. Here you will find photos and tables of characteristics.

Inexpensive

Zitrek TH-25

The Zitrek TH-25 hand-held device is a high-precision plumbing tool used for hydrodynamic testing of pipeline structures and communications services. "Zitrek TH-25" is used for certification of equipment after installation and repair work in the construction and housing and communal services sector.

The device is capable of pumping water, antifreeze, oil. The device kit includes: pressure gauge, sleeve. "Zitrek TH-25" is used as a hydraulic mechanism as part of more complex units.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

Zitrek TH-25Advantages:

• designed to increase pressure in pipelines (functions only as a testing tool to check for leaks);
• pressure gauge;
• small dimensions, weight;
• comfortable handle;
• can act as a hydraulic drive for various devices.

Flaws:

• not detected.

HSY30-5

The HSY30-5 testing device is capable of quickly and fairly accurately testing the tightness of sewers, pipelines, and other closed circuits. The mechanism is suitable for servicing solar batteries. Constant pressure is generated thanks to the reliable design of the device. It includes an ergonomic valve that regulates the opening of the valves, a brass piston and a casing.

Due to the filter located at the inlet, the HSY30-5 is protected from damage caused by dirt entering the system. The mechanism is distinguished by its small dimensions and mobility; the manual drive allows you to avoid searching for a power source at the construction site. The set is complemented by a metal container with anti-corrosion coating.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

HSY30-5Advantages:

• pressure gauge data is read while the equipment is operating;
• brass piston and valve body ensure long service life;
• efficiency 45 ml/cycle;
• compact, lightweight, ideal for mobile use;
• unique valve system maintains constant pressure
• The input filter increases operational reliability.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Rotor Test Mini

The hand-held tester “Rotor Test Mini” is used to test the tightness of water-carrying communications with a pressure of up to 25 bar; the device has a metal tank with a capacity of 5 liters. The device is able to quickly “pressure test” the heating system. "Rotor Test Mini" is used for testing leaks inside air circuits, refrigerators, oil and sprinkler structures, and other closed installations. The pressure gauge included in the kit is easy to read. The holder has a rubber pad that allows you to carry the device more comfortably.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

Rotor Test MiniAdvantages:

• compactness;
• metal casing (reservoir);
• comfortable rubberized handle;
• high-precision pressure gauge that controls parameters;
• The piston is made of strong brass that is resistant to corrosion.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Average

Rothenberger RP 50

The manual German unit “Rothenberger RP 50” is used for accurate, quick testing of working pressure, tightness of water supply structures, tanks, heating and plumbing equipment, compressors, steam, cooling, and oil units. The device generates pressure in the test space, after which the operator closes the shut-off valve and observes whether the pressure gauge readings drop. This is how it is determined whether the water supply structure or container is airtight.

Constant pressure inside the unit is ensured thanks to 2 valves and stainless steel ball spindles. "Rothenberger RP 50" has a reliable tank with a capacity of 12 liters made of galvanized sheet steel, which can successfully withstand mechanical damage, harmful environmental influences, freezing, and does not rust. The machine has a metal piston, a 0-60 bar pressure gauge, and the set includes a connecting fitting with a 0.5-inch nut.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

Rothenberger RP 50Advantages:

• meets the high requirements of German quality workmanship;
• icing resistance;
• wear resistance;
• tank volume 12 l;
• consumption about 45 ml/cycle;
• connector R 1/2”;
• control hose with fabric braid;
• reduced risk of measurement errors due to the quality of the hose;
• the ability to use a pressure gauge with a precise scale (0.1 bar) for testing up to 16 bar;
• high performance;
• fast filling with long stroke;
• ergonomic handle;
• The pressure gauge needle accurately indicates the set pressure, so the pressure drop is easy to determine.

Flaws:

• not detected.

NR-60

The manual testing device “NR-60” was manufactured by a Russian company; the device is equipped with a container and is used to test the tightness of pipes and tanks. The unit can withstand pressure up to 60 bar (6 MPa). “NR-60” is a multi-tasking instrument; its measuring instruments are located conveniently for the operator monitoring the readings of the main parameters.

The casing of the device is resistant to rust, it is comfortable to move from place to place, and in case of long-term storage it can be packed. The device is capable of pumping water, mineral oil, antifreeze. The “NR-60” set includes: a 12-liter tank, a high-precision pressure gauge, and a 1.5-meter long hose that can withstand increased pressure. The unit will be needed in case of certification of various buildings and structures.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

NR-60 manual pumpAdvantages:

• rust resistance;
• works with water, oil.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Rekon

The manual tester "Rekon" is used for testing work. Due to the generation of water pressure, factory-made and home-made closed circuits are checked for leaks (heat supply, sewerage, solar batteries, refrigerator compressors. The device is capable of pumping oil, and is used during the production of boilers, compressed gas cylinders; pressure tanks, checking sprinklers.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

Rekon test pumpAdvantages:

• durable, comfortable metal construction for heavy-duty use;
• corrosion-resistant powder-coated metal tank;
• lever with an ergonomic handle used during carrying;
• wear-resistant brass construction with a one-piece shut-off valve and a pressure gauge with an accurate scale for reading changes in parameters;
• 2-valve ball system made of stainless steel increases reliability;
• high performance during long lever strokes and accuracy during short strokes;
• Flexible, reinforced high-pressure braided hose increases accuracy of readings.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Expensive

Rothenberger RP Pro 3

We bring to your attention an automatic crimping machine for testing “Rothenberger RP Pro 3”, powered by electricity. It is used during testing of pipelines, water supply tanks, heating, air conditioning, fire fighting, sewerage, irrigation structures, solar panels, other hydraulic and pneumatic systems, in the manufacture of pressure tanks, industrial boilers. The machine can withstand up to 40 bar.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

Rothenberger RP Pro 3Advantages:

• compact, durable plastic case, convenient to use on any construction site;
• strong, reliable single-phase four-stroke electric motor with a power of 1.3 kW;
• thermal switch prevents overload and damage to the pump;
• the test hose has a steel braid, preventing leakage during measurements;
• glycerin pressure gauge compensates for pneumatic shocks, making it easier to read readings during dynamic loads;
• pressure control valve with precise markings on the handle;
• automatic filling, leak testing of pipelines and tanks;
• free choice of liquid supply type: self-priming or pump;
• quick overview of functions;
• used for water, oil, glycol, "typhocor".

Flaws:

• not detected.

OGS-100 EP-40

"OGS-100 EP-40" is a device with an electric drive for testing aquifer structures. It is used for pressure testing of tanks of various sizes and pipelines. "OGS-100 EP-40" operates in the Russian climate, in the ambient temperature range from 10 to 35 degrees. This series has category “U”, GOST 15150-69.

The machine has the following features:

• checking the strength of pipes and engineering structures after installation or repair;
• applied during the commissioning of heating networks;
• detects leaks in heaters;
• used during the installation of pressure tanks.

Precautionary measures:

• avoid contamination of the unit and hydraulic fluid;
• use only clean drinking water or oils “VMGZ”, “I-12A”, “I-20A”;
• Check and clean the inlet filter periodically.
• After operation and long-term storage, always remove water from the hydraulic system by pumping it in a waiting manner for a few seconds;
• You cannot work with water at temperatures below 0 degrees;

It is important to pay attention to the presence of lubricant in the built-in grease nipples and on each of the three cavities of the machine piston.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

OGS-100 EP-40Advantages:

• 12 month warranty;
• electric drive;
• power 2200 W.

Flaws:

• not detected.

MGF Compact 60 905200

"MGF Compact 60" works thanks to an electric drive, withstanding up to 60 bar. The unit was created by an Italian company for crimping, filling, pumping liquid and non-acidic substances inside hydraulic structures. The increased pressure is generated by the powerful pistons of the mechanism. The reliable device can successfully resist rust and has a strong motor. Advantages of the electric device “MGF Compact 60”:

• the small weight of the device facilitates its faster transportation;
• reliable motor with power reserve;
• universal (EN 837) glycerin pressure gauge with 3 different scales in basic units of measurement guarantees the accuracy of the readings;
• no need to connect to a compressor;
• fittings made of stainless steel, brass;
• there is a filter element at the inlet, which reliably protects against dirt;
• insulation class IPX5, work S1.

Technical indicators:

ParametersCharacteristics

MGF Compact 60 905200Advantages:

• accurate pressure gauge;
• overheat protection;
• Convenient holder ensures comfortable carrying.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Test Tools

To test the system for resistance to high pressure, a special device is used, which is called a pressure tester. It is a pump capable of creating pressure inside the system up to 60 or 100 atmospheres, depending on the type of mechanism. There are 2 types of pumps: manual and automatic. They differ only in that the second option stops pumping itself if the pressure reaches the desired level.

The pump consists of a tank into which water is poured and a plunger pump with a handle that moves it. On the body of the mechanism there are taps to block the pressure supply and pressure gauges to regulate the pressure. There is also a tap on the tank that allows you to drain the water that remains in the tank.

The principle of operation of such a pump is similar to a conventional piston analogue, which is used to inflate tires. The main difference is the cylindrical piston made of steel. It is fitted tightly inside the housing and a minimum gap is created, which makes it possible to pump up pressure up to 60 atmospheres.

Manual blower Source amazon.com

For hand pumps, the biggest disadvantage is that such pressure testing of pipes will take a very long time due to pumping the system with water. This process can take several hours, since large systems that have radiators will need to be filled manually.

Automatic devices work on a similar principle, but when the pressure limit is reached, they turn off themselves. They also require electricity to operate, so manual ones are more suitable for places where there is no power supply yet. Automatic pumps can pump pressure up to 100 bar, and industrial devices up to 1000 bar.

Electric version of the compressor Source ngenix.net

See also: Catalog of house projects with a boiler room up to 1 million rubles

Advantages and disadvantages of a crimper

Further comparison of the two versions of crimping machines allows us to identify the advantages of manual models:

• Small dimensions and weight, the equipment can be easily transported by passenger transport and moved to any premises on site.
• A simple mechanical circuit that ensures reliability and increased service life.
• The maintainability of manual versions of crimpers, the low price of components, due to which the devices can be restored to functionality at home.
• Possibility of use at sites without power supply and during emergency shutdowns from the main or autonomous network.

Also worthy of attention is the possibility of safe operation by personnel who have little knowledge of how to use a manual pressure test pump. Detailed instructions will be enough to explain all the features of using the equipment.

At the same time, one should not underestimate the objective disadvantages. Among them, we note the need to make significant efforts to pump the pump, the increased duration of the work period, the need to constantly monitor the pressure of the working fluid due to the lack of automatic control systems. Here you have to choose - savings or comfortable working conditions.

Pipe crimping

There are 2 different methods of heating heating: water and air. Using the first option, all thermal systems are most often tested. To do this, liquid under pressure is pumped into a special tap, with which you can quickly detect breakouts and leaks.

The air method is a less effective method for checking pipes, but its main advantage is that during frosts water cannot be used, as it may freeze. To find leaks, soapy water is used to lubricate suspicious areas. The main search method is to determine a breakthrough by ear. The pressure in the system is built up using a compressor through a valve into which water must be supplied.

For multi-story buildings, there are certain testing rules that indicate the minimum pressure for the test. In water heating, panel and convector systems it should be 10 atmospheres, and in a circuit with steel or cast iron pipes - 6 bar.

Types of pumps for testing

Test activities are carried out using manual or electric pumps to build up pressure.

Manual models are equipped with pressure control devices, a tap for shutting off incoming water and a shut-off valve for draining water from a rectangular cuvette. A plunger pump is used to pump water under pressure. The main disadvantage of manual equipment is the low download speed and labor-intensive process.

The best choice would be electrical equipment. Its advantage is the high speed of filling the circuits and automatic shutdown when the required pressure is reached.

Video description

This video shows why pressure testing of the system is necessary.
To carry out the work, water with a temperature of 42 °C is poured into the heating circuit and air is released through special valves. Within 10 minutes, a test pressure is created, with which the joints are checked for leaks. After this, the pressure is increased to the required standard and a test is carried out for 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the material from which the system is made.

On private plots, the test can be carried out no more often than once every 4-5 years. To do this, you do not need to have a lot of knowledge and skills, and the entire procedure can be done independently, if you have the necessary equipment. In order not to spend a lot of money on purchase, you should rent a compressor or call a special service to check the pipes.

Checking pressure by a specialist Source inkrasnogorsk.ru

In a high-rise building

Pressure testing of heating pipes in multi-storey buildings is most often done in the middle or end of spring, after the heating is turned off. If complaints are received about low water temperature, then the heating company must carry out a calculation of the radiators. Under certain conditions, they can be replaced, removed or new ones added. During the inspection, all risers are checked for blockages and washed under high pressure along with the rest of the system.

Also, during inspections, insulating gaskets, seals on cast iron valves and stuck bolts should be changed. During this, the fittings in elevators and pipes are inspected. This is to check them for rust or damage. After all the tests, the condition of the heat-insulating materials on the line is analyzed.

At the end of the checks, it is necessary to carry out pressure testing of the pipes, taking into account the material from which the system is made and the operating pressure of the system. If the pipes are made of cast iron, then the pressure does not rise above 6 atmospheres, and if they are in the walls - no more than 10 bar, as with panel heating systems.

Example of cast iron radiators Source radiator-home.ru

See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in heating, water supply, sewerage and lighting

Pipe inspection is done in 2 steps. To do this, first the entire heating system is checked, and then its individual sections are tested under higher pressure. To do this, the heating circuit is filled with water, which has a low pH level, which avoids the formation of deposits on the pipes. The pressure is increased using electric pumps, since it is often impossible to manually fill such a volume.

If the pressure has not dropped within 30 minutes, then pressure testing can be completed. If there is a leak, it must be found and removed, and then the test must be repeated. Each node is individually checked in a similar way, only the pressure is increased to 10 atmospheres.

Instructions for flushing the heating system

Pneumatic pulse cleaning scheme
There are 2 main methods for flushing the heating system, namely:

• using special hydropneumatic equipment;
• using chemical reagents.

Prices for popular models of air compressors

Air compressors

Flushing using the hydropneumatic method

Hydropneumatic flushing of heating systems - instructions

Hydropneumatic flushing of heating systems - instructions
This method is actively used by domestic housing offices and is quite effective. You just need to do everything in accordance with technology.

The principle is extremely simple: first, water is discharged from the system, then it is supplied back. A special pneumatic pump is used to “adjust” the water flow. As a result, under the influence of a fairly powerful pressure, scale and other deposits peel off, and when the water is drained, they are removed from the system.

To carry out this procedure yourself, you will need a pneumatic pump capable of pumping a pressure of more than 6 kg/cm2.

The sequence of actions is as follows.

Before starting work, you must turn off all taps

The end fittings are unscrewed using a wrench

First step. We close the return valve.

Heating system line diagram

Second step. We connect the pneumatic pump to the valve installed after the valve.

Third step. We reset the return line.

Fourth step. Let the pneumatic pump build up pressure above 6 kg/cm2, and then open the valve to which it is connected.

Fifth step. We close off all the risers one by one. We do this so that no more than 10 risers are blocked at one time. Compliance with this rule will make the washing procedure as effective as possible.

Sixth step. We switch the system to reset in the opposite direction. To do this we do the following:

• close the discharge and close the valve connected to the pump, and turn off the device;
• close the open valve, and then open a similar one on the “return”;
• we reset the heating system. To do this, connect the pneumatic pump to the valve in the opposite direction, then open the valve and turn on the pump. The liquid will move in a different direction.

You can determine the required duration of rinsing by eye. Has clear clear liquid started coming out of the system? We can finish! Return the gates and valves to their original positions and turn off the pump.

Prepare a suitable container to collect dirty water. If you wish, you can connect a hose to the battery and ensure that the dirty coolant is discharged into the sewer.

Chemical wash

Scheme of chemical flushing of pipes
This method can be used only in two cases, namely:

• if it is necessary to clean a heating system with natural circulation, built using steel pipes. It is advisable to use chemical reagents in situations where, for any reason, there is no desire to flush the entire system. Most often, blockages are deposited in heat exchangers. The system can silt around the entire perimeter. In the second case, chemical washing will not be of much use;
• if it is necessary to restore the old heating system. Over decades of operation, pipes can become clogged and overgrown so much that the power of the pneumatic pump will not be enough for effective cleaning. It would, of course, be possible to use a more powerful pump, but no one can guarantee that the pipes will not burst under such pressure.

Important! If the pipes are very old, with traces of corrosion and deformation damage, flushing may not have any positive result. Chemical reagents will simply dissolve the rust, causing the pipes to begin to leak. The only effective solution in such a situation would be to replace worn-out lines.

Flushing reagent
The flushing principle is simple: instead of coolant, a special solution containing acid and alkali is poured into the system. Then the mixture is circulated for 2-3 hours (if it is not the natural circulation line that is being cleaned, you will need to connect a pneumatic pump for this), after which it is drained and the pipes are filled with standard coolant.

Reagents for flushing and protecting heating systems

Important! According to the requirements of SNiP, such reagents are prohibited from being discharged into the sewer system. The best option is to neutralize the used mixture using a special composition. You can buy it in the same place where you buy the washing solution.

Never use such chemical mixtures to clean aluminum pipes. If the products remain intact after such washing, they will serve significantly less.

It is recommended to carry out mandatory flushing of the system of a private home at least once every 7 to 10 years.

Video description

This video shows a test of a separate system unit using air

On a private plot

For private areas, most often the working pressure does not exceed 2 atmospheres. Therefore, when checking, a pressure of 4 bar is used. Car pumps or small compressors can be used during testing.

Before checking the pipes for leaks and pressure resistance, it is necessary to drain all liquid from the system into a large container for reuse. This is necessary to ensure that coolant with impurities does not enter the system. After this, a special liquid with special additives is poured into the circuit, which helps flush the pipes from excess dirt, scale or rust.

Before flushing the system, it is necessary to clean all water filters and put them back. Cleaning the pipes can be done several times, if necessary, and the water temperature should be from 55 to 60°C. After each run of the purifier, the water filters should be checked. The rinsing can be completed if they remain clean after the test.

Pressure testing with water Source konyademirdokum.com

If the water remains clean after washing, it can be reused to build up pressure during pressure testing. But for this you should let it cool to 40-45 °C. If a manual blower is used, then water must be poured into its tank and the pressure in the system increased using a lever. After it has reached the desired mark, the circuit must be checked within 30 minutes.

Similarly, with multi-storey buildings for private plots, it is also necessary to re-test the system if the pressure drops below normal. To do this, you must first find and repair the leak.

If the pipes are under a concrete covering, and there are no leaks in open areas, then you need to look for wet spots on the surface of the walls or floor, since if depressurization occurs there, the water will wet them. You can also use a thermal imager to detect leaks. If the spots are not visible and the pressure drops, then at high temperatures you can find the problem area using this device.

Call specialists or do it yourself

If for some purpose you require a pressure test certificate for your heating or hot water supply system, you have only one option - order this service from a specialized organization. The cost of heating pressure testing can only be quoted to you individually. It depends on the volume of the system, its structure, the presence of shut-off valves and their condition. In general, the cost is calculated based on the tariff for 1 hour of work, and it ranges from 1000 rubles/hour to 2500 rubles/hour. You will have to call different organizations and inquire with them.

Companies involved in hydraulic system testing have more serious equipment.

If you have upgraded the heating or hot water supply of your own home, and you know for sure that your pipes and equipment are in good condition, there are no salts or deposits in them, you can carry out pressure testing yourself. No one will demand hydraulic test certificates from you. Even if you see that your pipes and radiators are clogged, you can wash everything yourself and then test it again. If you just don’t want to do this, you can call specialists. They will immediately clean the system and pressure test it, and will also issue you a certificate.

Certificate of hydrostatic testing of the system (pressure testing)

Video description

This video shows why the pressure in the circuits may drop

Open systems with air

Air testing can be used to test open heating systems. Most often, an expansion tank is used to create pressure in private areas, and the pressure in the system when using it is 1 bar. Therefore, for testing, this parameter will be 2 atmospheres, which can be pumped up using a conventional hand pump.

Before performing the test, all liquid from the system must be drained (preferably into a separate container for reuse) and the pipes must be flushed. After cleaning, all water must be drained and tightly closed all places through which air can be released, for example, Mayevsky taps. It is also necessary to close the inlet pipe that leads to the tank. After this, you should connect the pump to the system through a special fitting using a hose, which is recommended to be secured with clamps, and begin to apply pressure.

Open heating circuit Source izion.pro

How to choose the right manual crimper

Another point worth paying attention to. For professional activities and one-time use at home, it is worth purchasing devices that differ significantly in price. But even in this case, pay attention to the following performance indicators:

• Weight and overall dimensions - the smaller, the easier it is to work with the device.
• Possible volume of pumped liquid required to increase the pressure in the system being tested.
• The performance of the plunger pump, what effort will be required when performing the work.

It is worth noting that for testing household heating systems, short-length pipeline networks, and household containers, pressure testers with a productivity of 3-6 liters per minute are sufficient. If you are going to provide professional services in this area, choose powerful and expensive models; in this case, you should not save. High-class equipment will reduce the time spent checking the status of various networks and reduce labor intensity.

A good decision when choosing would be to contact a specialist who already has experience working with similar equipment. You can get a free consultation from a seller with a good reputation.

Pipe flushing

After familiarizing yourself with the fact that this is pressure testing of the heating system, you should consider one of the important components of this process, namely flushing the pipes. When pouring water into the system, the liquid may contain impurities that, during heating, can leave scale or salts on the walls of heating systems. This reduces the working cross-section of the pipes and can cause blockages, just like rust.

These 2 harmful impurities reduce the rate of heating and cooling of pipes and increase the pressure inside the heating circuits. This can lead to overheating of individual sections of the heat pipe and the formation of fistulas (cracks or holes). If scale or rust has formed a 1 mm layer on the wall, this will degrade the performance of the system by 15-20%, which will lead to a severe loss of thermal efficiency.

Example of a dirty pipe Source restreamsolutions.com

The main indicator of clogged pipes is the speed at which they heat up, the uniformity of this process, as well as increased fluid flow inside the circuits. To clean the system from harmful deposits, the system is pumped with water with special impurities, after which an air compressor is connected. It is needed so that, due to high pressure, turbulence is created in the water flow, which creates additional vibrations in places of deposits.

During such washing, scale and rust are torn off the walls and driven towards the filters. When carrying out this activity, you should close all air valves that should relieve excess pressure. It is also recommended to install a check valve at the junction of the compressor mount in order to avoid water backflow.

Flushing device Source www.lhps.co.uk

Why flush your heating system?

Have you noticed that some of your friends or neighbors have much warmer radiators than yours at home? There may be several reasons for this, but the most common is the presence of blockages in the heating lines. It is to eliminate such troubles and prevent their further occurrence that flushing is performed.

Symptoms and manifestations of a clogged heating system in a private home

Heating efficiency is reduced due to two main factors, namely:

• the appearance of mineral deposits in pipes. Most often, this problem is observed in systems equipped with non-galvanized steel pipes. Calcium and magnesium salts begin to deposit on the pipe surfaces, which leads to a significant reduction in throughput. In systems built using galvanized pipes, this problem usually does not arise;

  
  The appearance of mineral deposits in pipes

• silting of heating radiators. Most often, areas where the coolant moves at low speed become silted.

  
  Radiator silting

Cast iron batteries, as well as radiators with a large number of sections, are most susceptible to silting. The relationship is simple: the more sections and the larger they are, the slower the coolant moves through the system and the higher the likelihood of silting.

Documents for crimping

To carry out pressure testing of the system, you must have a plan, which is reviewed and signed by the chief engineer of the company that supplies heat. This document determines the sequence in which the inspection will be carried out, as well as what employees should do during the process. Also, after all checks, a pressure testing report must be drawn up, which describes:

• what verification method was used;
• the project for which the heating system was installed;
• the date of the tests, the address of the place of conduct and the names of those people who sign this act;
• what methods were used to fix leaks or problems in the circuit;
• test result;
• the presence of places that violate the tightness of the system and the formation of condensation on fittings or pipes.

After all checks, the act should be checked for errors or inaccuracies, and then signed. There is also a schedule for flushing and pressure testing the heating system, a sample of which can be seen below.

Pressure testing schedule Source yolatec1.ru

Requirements for crimp testing

A heating system inspection can only be considered completed if certain requirements are met:

• All tests are carried out under the strict supervision of the shift supervisor.
• During control activities, it is prohibited to perform any work at the site.
• The testing program must be approved by the chief engineer of the testing organization. The program strictly regulates the actions of each employee and the sequence of the technological process. In addition, it outlines safety measures when carrying out inspection activities and scheduled work at adjacent facilities.
• The presence of strangers at the site during pressure testing of the heating system is not allowed. Only specialists directly involved in the inspection should be on site.
• It is prohibited to enable or disable the object being checked.
• During testing, adjacent areas must be fenced off with special structures, and the testing equipment must be turned off.
• During the inspection of the equipment being tested, the operating pressure must be maintained in the system; exceeding these values ​​is not allowed.
• To confirm the tightness of the water heating system, the responsible specialist draws up a report on the performance of pressure testing.

Briefly about the main thing

Pressure testing of the heating system is checking the functionality of the heating circuits and testing them for leaks.

Pipes should be checked after installing the entire heating system, repairing it, and every year before and after the heating season for preventive purposes.

For crimping circuits, manual or electrical equipment will be used. This depends on the size of the system, the funds and time that you plan to spend on testing.

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How much do hydraulic tests cost?

Knowing how to pressurize a heating system, it will not be difficult for the owner of a private house to carry out the work on his own, but this solution is not optimal, especially when launching a new autonomous highway. It is better to contact a specialized company, whose master will show you all the stages of the procedure and tell you the nuances of the work.

The cost depends on the complexity of the process, the length and condition of the heating system. If the procedure is supplemented by washing, replacing metering and measuring instruments and eliminating leaks, then the service will cost more. On average, testing an apartment building will cost from $400 (from 30,000 rubles), a mansion will cost from $200 (15,000 rubles), one apartment on average from $65 (5,000 rubles).

Important! When inviting a master, the owner must receive a contract for the work, an estimate and, upon completion of the crimping, a report drawn up in the form, as well as a guarantee for all types of services provided.