Radiant Heating System Pressure Test Gauge
Photo Details
- Date: October 22, 2025
- Time: 7:07 PM (same time as manifold photo)
- Weather: Light to moderate drizzle, 47-51°F. Wet conditions visible.
- Phase: Foundation - Radiant heating system pressure testing
- Location: 309 E. 7th St., Clare, MI
- View: Close-up of pressure gauge on PEX testing equipment
Description
This close-up photo shows a pressure gauge attached to the radiant floor heating system, documenting the critical pressure test performed before the concrete slab pour to verify system integrity.
Visible Elements
- Pressure Gauge:
- Analog pressure gauge reading in PSI (pounds per square inch)
- Scale ranges from 0 to 100+ PSI
- Needle pointing to approximately 60-70 PSI
- Gauge appears to be in good working condition with clear face
- Metal construction with standard pressure fitting
- Gauge Mounting:
- Blue hose or valve fitting visible at bottom of gauge
- Connected to PEX manifold system
- Professional testing equipment
- Background:
- Orange Creatherm insulation surface visible (slightly out of focus)
- PEX tubing visible in background
- Testing occurring on-site at foundation
Pressure Testing Purpose
Why Pressure Test? Pressure testing the radiant heating system before concrete pour is critical for:
- Leak Detection: Identifies any leaks, punctures, or connection failures in PEX tubing or fittings
- System Integrity: Verifies all loops are properly connected and sealed
- Quality Assurance: Confirms professional installation before it’s buried in concrete
- Code Compliance: Many building codes require pressure testing of embedded hydronic systems
- Cost Avoidance: Finding leaks now prevents catastrophic and expensive repairs after concrete is poured
Testing Procedure:
- System is pressurized with air or water to specified test pressure (typically 50-100 PSI)
- Pressure is held for extended period (usually 24 hours)
- Any pressure drop indicates a leak that must be found and repaired
- System must maintain pressure before concrete pour is approved
Gauge Reading Analysis
The gauge shows approximately 60-70 PSI, which indicates:
- System is actively under pressure test
- Pressure is within typical testing range for PEX systems
- This reading will be monitored over time to verify no pressure loss
- Successful test requires stable pressure reading for 24+ hours
Construction Significance
This pressure test represents a critical quality checkpoint before:
- ✓ Foundation forms complete
- ✓ Under-slab insulation installed
- ✓ PEX tubing laid out and manifold connected
- → Pressure test in progress (current phase)
- ⧖ Pressure test verification (24-hour hold)
- ⧖ Rebar/mesh installation
- ⧖ Concrete slab pour
No concrete can be poured until this test passes successfully.
Professional Practice
The presence of this pressure test demonstrates:
- Professional installation standards being followed
- Quality control measures in place
- Contractor experience with hydronic radiant systems
- Attention to long-term system reliability
- Code compliance awareness
Related Documents
- Hershberger’s Contract - “½” pex for in floor heat” specification
- Delivery invoice for hydronic heating - PEX materials and system components
- Garage HVAC and Heating - Radiant floor heating system design and specifications
- Construction Quality Standards - Quality control procedures
- Sequence to build garage - Construction sequence and testing requirements