Hydrostatic & Static Testing

Static Testing — Verifying the Water Line System

Static testing checks the pressurized side — your domestic water supply lines.  It’s how we prove whether the system is holding or slowly losing pressure. 

How It Works 

We install a pressure gauge on an exterior hose bib, then shut off water at the meter or main  valve.  

Once isolated, we watch what the gauge does: 

• Holds steady → No leaks. 
• Rises → Normal thermal expansion. 
• Drops → Possible leak — but we confirm before labeling it.

When Pressure Drops — Narrowing It Down 

A pressure drop doesn’t always mean disaster. We eliminate easy causes first: • Running toilets with worn flappers 

• Dripping faucets 
• Yard line leaks between meter and foundation 
• Or a true under-slab leak 

Each test builds on the last — logical, controlled, and documented. 

Isolating the Yard Line 

If the yard line looks suspicious, we separate it from the home system.  

That requires functional isolation valves — and if they’re missing or seized, we explain the fix  first.  

Sometimes installing a new valve is the only way to test accurately. 

Hot Side vs. Cold Side 

Once fixtures and yard lines are ruled out, we isolate hot vs. cold by shutting off the water  heater. 

• Pressure holds → Leak’s on the hot side. 
• Pressure still drops → Cold side or main. 

That simple step can save hours of unnecessary exploration. 

When It Points Under the Slab 

If the test shows pressure loss inside the home, we stop testing and document.  At that point, we transition into Slab Leak Detection, which you can read about here:  

Older Systems and Seized Valves

Old gate valves and galvanized systems look fine — until you touch them.  If we can’t isolate sections cleanly, we’ll explain why and lay out options before continuing.  Accuracy over speed, every time. 

Reporting & Results — Documentation You Can Trust

Every test includes: 

• Pressure and result readings 
• Photos when applicable 
• A hand-drawn sketch of the system layout 
• Notes on what passed, failed, or needs further inspection 

It’s not CAD work — it’s clear, usable proof.  

That’s what helps homeowners, engineers, and adjusters make informed calls. 

What We Don’t Do — And Why

We test. We document. We report. That’s it. 

We don’t: 

• Inflate results to create work 
• Downplay issues to keep someone happy 
• Share data without authorization 
• Use testing as a sales pitch 

Our reports are used by engineers, adjusters, and homeowners who rely on accuracy.  Integrity is part of the test — and we protect it. 

Code Corner — Why Testing Matters

Texas plumbing law (TSBPE Chapter 1301) requires that testing and repairs be done by a  licensed plumber under an RMP.  

Cities may adopt different versions of the IPC or IRC, but at JPS, we know them all — and we  build beyond them.

Code Is the Starting Line, Not the Finish

Code is a 70 out of 100.  

It’s the bare minimum — we go higher. 

That means: 

• Proper line sizing for total load 
• Strapping and bracing that lasts 
• Materials chosen for performance, not shortcuts 

Code keeps you legal.  

Our standards keep you safe.