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Water Main Testing Procedures

Water main testing procedures focus on hydrostatic pressure reliability and are driven by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) set of standards. The rule of thumb is that the system must pass a hydrostatic pressure of 1.5 times expected pressure or 200 psi.

  1. Local Standards

    • Nearly every state, county and municipality derives its water main requirements from the AWWA standards. Before starting a test, go to the local water distribution authority and determine whether your locality differs.

    AWWA Standards

    • The AWWA site calls for a hydrostatic test at 1.5 times expected pressure or 200 psi.
      Commercial testing companies have the calibrated test equipment available to make certified and documented tests for municipalities and businesses. In most instances, this is the preferred method for both safety and record-keeping issues.

    Procedures

    • The references below include the water main testing procedures from two small municipalities.
      As testing is required after installation, after modification or major repairs, and (in many cases) periodically in most states, formal procedures are documented. Most water districts have contract or price agreements with certified vendors for testing and record-keeping to meet state mandates.

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