Pressure Decay Testing for Slab Leaks
Monitoring pressure drop in isolated slab-embedded pipes to confirm leaks and estimate flow rate before committing to slab cutting.
How Pressure Decay Testing for Slab Leaks Works
Pressure decay testing is specifically adapted for slab leak detection and confirmation. When a leak is suspected in a pipe embedded within a concrete slab, we isolate the suspect pipe section and pressurize it to a known pressure (typically 80-120 psi). The system is sealed and the pressure is monitored over a 30-minute to 2-hour test period. A controlled pressure drop confirms a leak and the rate of drop provides an estimate of leak flow rate. This information is essential for the repair contractor to plan the repair approach and for the insurance adjuster to assess the claim. Combined with thermal imaging and acoustic methods, pressure decay testing provides the complete diagnostic picture needed for slab leak remediation.
Applications in BC
- Slab leak confirmation before concrete cutting
- Radiant floor heating circuit integrity testing
- Hot water circulating loop leak verification
- Plumbing riser leak confirmation in multi-storey buildings
- Fire sprinkler branch line leak testing
Advantages
- Definitively confirms leak presence in slab
- Quantifies flow rate for repair planning
- Provides documentation for insurance claims
- Non-destructive — no slab cutting for testing
- Can test multiple circuits sequentially
Limitations
- Does not provide exact leak location
- Requires pipe isolation and access
- Cannot test systems that cannot be isolated
- Temperature changes can affect pressure readings
Equipment Used
- • Hydro-Test HP-300 pressure test pump
- • Digital pressure gauge with data logging
- • Wheeler-Rex hydrostatic test kit
- • Watts precision pressure gauge
- • Test-plugs for isolation
Professional Pressure Decay Testing for Slab Leaks in BC
LeakInspections.ca — a division of Anyleak.ca and Leak.ca. Call 604-239-9934.