What is the recommended pressure for testing gas lines?

The recommended pressure for testing gas lines is 10 psi. This pressure is established to effectively assess the integrity of gas piping systems without risking damage or compromising safety. At 10 psi, it is sufficient to detect any leaks or failures in the system while also ensuring that the components can withstand the pressure during normal operation.

Testing at this pressure allows for a good balance; it is not so high that it could cause undue stress or potential failure of the piping materials, which could lead to safety hazards. It is important that the pressure is maintained for a certain duration to ensure that no drops are observed, indicating a leak.

While other pressures may be used under different circumstances, 10 psi is the standard across many plumbing codes and regulations for routine testing of gas lines, ensuring both safety and reliability in gas distribution systems.