A pipe dry testing kit is used for testing pipework during and after installation. It is called a ‘pipe dry testing kit’ because the pipes are tested with air, not liquid, hence the word ‘dry’.
Pipe dry testing kits can come as individual parts (such as the testing gauge), in sets with different components, or as a wet and dry testing set.
They are suitable for dry testing pipes that carry water – including combination (combi) systems – air, gas and petroleum oil. This type of testing kit can be used by DIYers as testing will be done when the pipes are empty of water, gas or oil.
What is a combi system?
A combi system is a very popular boiler that provides heating and hot water. Combi boilers are capable of providing hot water on demand and at mains pressure, avoiding the need for a hot water tank or cylinder.
The pipe dry testing kit uses air to establish whether there is a leak by detecting a drop in pressure within the pipework.
What is pressure?
Pressure is a physical force acting against an area. Pressure is the force that pushes water, oil, gas and air through pipes.
A drop in pressure can cause systems to not run to their full potential. For example, low pressure reduces the flow of water causing it to trickle, which will mean, for instance, that it will take a long time to fill a kettle.A number of modern shower and heating appliances will not work below certain pressure levels.
Pressure for different systems should be kept constant so you get the best results. However, this is not always possible as low pressure can occur even when your systems are working perfectly. This can be a result of high demand at certain times of the day, for example in the mornings and evenings. When there is a high demand for water, low pressure is common.
