For gas pressure testing of lines 200 ft or longer, how long should the test be held?

• A. 30 minutes
• B. 90 minutes
• C. 120 minutes
• D. 60 minutes

Answer: (D)

The test duration is based on giving enough time for a long piping run to reveal any leaks and to confirm the pressure can be held steadily across the entire length. For lines 200 ft or longer, the volume of gas and the distance to potential leak points mean a longer observation period is needed. Holding the test for sixty minutes allows you to detect small leaks and verify that the system maintains pressure under test conditions. During the test, keep the line at the specified test pressure, watch the pressure change over the period, and inspect all joints and connections for leaks. Shorter times may miss slow leaks in long runs, while much longer times aren’t typically necessary and can introduce other variables.