Pressure Test
Pressure Test | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Chattanooga
When your Chattanooga home experiences low water pressure, recurring leaks, or unexplained spikes in utility bills, the problem often hides behind the walls. HEP’s certified plumbers use precision pressure testing to locate weaknesses inside existing lines, then design targeted pipe upgrades that restore reliable flow without turning your house into a construction zone. With advanced diagnostic gear and years of local know-how, we catch pinhole leaks, corroded joints, and aging polybutylene long before they trigger a costly flood.
From classic bungalows in St. Elmo to new builds on Signal Mountain, our team handles every step—isolating the line, conducting safe high-pressure checks, and installing modern PEX or copper that meets today’s codes. You’ll get transparent pricing, a tidy worksite, and a rock-solid warranty so you can relax and enjoy clean, consistent water pressure for decades to come. Reach out to HEP today and feel the difference a smart pressure test and professional pipe upgrades can make.
FAQs
What is a plumbing pressure test and why is it important before pipe upgrades?
A pressure test is a controlled assessment in which we isolate your plumbing system, fill it with water (or sometimes air), and pressurize it to levels higher than normal operating conditions. By monitoring the pressure for 15–30 minutes, we can detect hidden leaks, weak joints, or corroded sections that are not visible to the eye. Performing this test before any pipe upgrade in Chattanooga ensures we replace or reinforce only the problem areas, preventing surprise leaks later and protecting your investment.
How is a pressure test performed on my Chattanooga home’s plumbing?
1) We shut off the main water supply and drain accessible fixtures. 2) Test gauges are installed at key points, and the system is filled with water and pressurized—typically to 150 psi for water lines (per IPC codes). 3) We watch the gauge: a pressure drop of more than 2 psi in 15 minutes usually indicates a leak. 4) If a leak is found, we use acoustic sensors and thermal cameras to pinpoint its location. 5) Once all issues are mapped, we discuss repair or upgrade options with you. The entire test usually takes 1–2 hours for an average-size Chattanooga home.
How can I tell if my pipes actually need to be upgraded?
Common signs include discolored or metallic-tasting water, frequent pinhole leaks, low water pressure, visible corrosion on exposed pipes, and water bills that keep rising. Many homes in Chattanooga built before 1980 still have galvanized steel or early copper that has reached the end of its 50-year life span. A professional inspection combined with a pressure test confirms whether isolated repairs will suffice or if a full repipe is the smarter long-term solution.
What pipe materials do you recommend for replacements in Chattanooga’s climate and water conditions?
PEX-A and Type L copper are the most reliable choices here. PEX-A tolerates our wide temperature swings, resists scale from our moderately hard water, and installs with minimal wall damage. Type L copper offers durability and proven longevity, especially for exposed or exterior sections. In multi-story or commercial buildings, CPVC fire-rated piping may also be spec’d. We’ll review your budget, water quality, and building code requirements to select the best material mix for your project.
How long does a typical pressure test and pipe upgrade take from start to finish?
For a 2-bath single-family home, the pressure test is done the first morning. If a full repipe is required, rough-in piping usually takes 2–3 days, followed by drywall repair and finish plumbing on day 4 or 5. Larger homes or projects that require trenching for main line replacement can extend to 7–10 days. We provide a detailed timeline before work begins and coordinate inspections with the City of Chattanooga so there are no delays.
Will a pressure test or pipe replacement disrupt my water service or damage my home?
During the pressure test, your water is off for 1–2 hours. For pipe upgrades, we stage work so critical fixtures (one toilet and one sink) are back on by evening. We use dust barriers, drop cloths, and vacuum-equipped cutting tools to keep your home clean. Wall openings are kept small and are fully patched and painted. After completion, we perform a final pressure test, flush the lines, and clean the work areas so your home is left exactly as we found it—only with leak-free, efficient piping.