How to fix a drop in pressure?

10th March 2020


	How to fix a drop in pressure?


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			Checking the pipe system
			If, after a pressure test has been completed, you notice there is a drop in pressure, the pipes will need to be checked again.

			Each open end pipe in the system that is limited by plugs or stop ends needs to be carefully inspected. Check each plug or stop end used to make sure they are placed correctly onto the end of the pipes.

			If a pipe plug is loose, this could be allowing air to escape. The plug will need to be pushed and turned clockwise to tighten it.

			A loose stop end could be allowing air to escape and would explain a pressure drop within the pipework. To secure it in place, the stop end will need to be pushed as far as possible against the pipe. You might need to remove the stop end and push it onto the pipe again to re-seat the seal.

			Before removing the plugs or stop ends, make sure all the pressure has been removed from the pipes by using the schrader valve.

			To release the pressure (air) from the pipe system, push the pin all the way down on the schrader valve, until the gauge dial reads 0.

			If the open ends of the pipes have been inspected and are sealed off correctly but there is still a drop in pressure, there could possibly be a leak, either in the pipes, joints or valves.

			Is there a leak?
			Pipes can become damaged or punctured while being installed, causing them to leak. If a pipe is damaged or punctured, it will need to be replaced.

			Walk the route of the piping while the system is pressurised, checking for any leaks.

			To detect a leak use a soap solution. Manually apply the solution along the pipes and on the joints of the pipes. If there is a leak, bubbles will appear. Small bubbles will indicate a small leak, and big bubbles a bigger one.

			If the leak is coming from the joints in the system, this can be rectified. To reduce the risk of threaded pipes and fittings leaking, PTFE thread seal tape or pipe joint compound can be used. Pipe joint compound can be used on threaded pipes and compression fittings. PTFE thread seal tape can only be used on threaded pipes.

			PTFE thread seal tape
			PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, a kind of polymer or plastic. PTFE thread seal tape is used for sealing the threads of pipe fittings: it is a low-friction tape that acts as a lubricant to allow tapered pipe threads to be screwed together until they deform to create a seal. The tape is simply wrapped around the extermal (male) thread before tightening. This will also help prevent threads binding.

			Pipe joint compound
			Pipe joint compound is a thread lubricant and sealant that is used to make a pipe thread joint leak-proof and pressure-tight. This compound can be used on copper and PVC. However, make sure you read the packaging carefully, as not all pipe joint compounds can be used on plastics.

			Compression fitting
			A compression fitting is used to join two pipes together. The fitting contains an olive that sits where the two pipes connect, creating a seal and also clamping the pipe.

			Applying pipe joint compound to a compression fitting Not everyone agrees that using joint compound is necessary for a compressiion joint, but if you have a leak, then you need to seal it! Lubricate the end of the pipe and the olive with the pipe joint compound. The compound will help the olive slide along the pipe and compress into the connection when the nut is tightened.

			Place the pipe onto the connection and tighten the nut using your hands.

			Finally, tighten the compression fitting with spanners.

			Once you have looked at the possible issues that could be causing your pipe system to drop in pressure and you have identified and rectified the problems, you will need to retest your system.

			If none of the above are causing the pressure to drop and you cannot find any problems with your system, you will need to contact a qualified plumber.