Pentair EQ SERIES, Installation And User Manual

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5
EQ Series Pump Installation and User’s Guide
Pressure Testing
Certain local codes require that the circulation system be pressure tested with a proof pressure before being
commissioned into service or before allowing construction to progress to the next stage.
WARNING — Improperly pressure testing a circulation system can involve significant risk of property damage or
severe personal injury or death. Circulation systems store energy when pressure tested due to the
elastic nature of the materials used in construction and due to the compressibility of air that may be
contained in the system. The instructions below should be considered a guide only. Each installation
should be considered a unique situation that should be carefully investigated for risk.
WARNING — Never test this equipment with air pressure even if specified by the local code. Even low levels of air
pressure result in tremendous storage of energy that can instantaneously be released if a system
failure occurs. This instantaneous release of energy can cause failed components to be accelerated
to high velocities and to travel distances of 100 feet or more. These components could cause severe
personal injury or death if they were to strike a person.
1. Understand the local code. The intent of the code may be to ensure that the piping system with its many bonded
joints is leak free. Piping systems typically have a higher pressure capability than the other system components
such as the pump or filter. Do not pressure test the pump unless the code specifically requires this.
2. Verify that each component in the system is designed to meet the local code test pressure. Most components
should be marked with a maximum operating pressure. If a component is not marked consult the Owner’s
Instructions that came with the component or consult the manufacturer.
3. Verify that the pressure test will be conducted within the operating temperature listed on the components that
make up the circulation system. If no maximum operating temperature is listed then it may be necessary to
review the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for this information. It is common practice for plastic
components to be pressure rated at 72 degrees F. and then derated for temperatures greater than this.
4. Use only a high quality pressure gage that is certified to be accurate for the pressure for which the test is going
to be conducted. Do not rely on the pressure gage included with the filtration system as it may not be sufficiently
accurate to conduct a pressure test for the system. Please note that the pressure in the system will vary
depending on where the pressure is taken due to the weight of the water.
5. Ensure that all air will be evacuated from the system when the water pressure is applied to the system. This
will require that all air bleeders on any equipment are open. It also may be necessary to remove some lids or
covers on system equipment such as the pump strainer lid to prevent air from being trapped in the system. In
addition, there may be other areas of the circulation system where air may be trapped. Do not connect water
pressure to the system until you are certain that air will be totally evacuated.
6. Determine the appropriate location in the system to apply the test water pressure. Consider the place in the
system that will best ensure that all air will be displaced when water is introduced.