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Vacuum Testing Added to the 2021 IPC: A New Option for Cold-Weather Construction
The 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) introduces a new alternative testing method for drainage and vent systems—vacuum testing—thanks to a proposal spearheaded by Joseph J. Summers, Chair of the Plumbing, Mechanical, and Fuel Gas Code Action Committee (PMGCAC). This change, found in Section 312.4, offers a practical solution for testing plumbing systems in colder climates where traditional water-based tests can pose challenges.Here’s what the new section covers: instead of relying on water to check the system, a vacuum pump is used to evacuate air from the drainage and vent system, creating a uniform gauge pressure of negative 5 pounds per square inch or negative 10 inches of mercury. The system is then monitored for 15 minutes, with any necessary adjustments made before the testing begins. The primary advantage is that vacuum testing eliminates the risk of frozen water or burst pipes during the testing phase, making it ideal for regions with freezing temperatures.
This change follows a similar update made in the 2018 IRC, providing consistency across codes. The committee reasoned that vacuum testing not only avoids potential damage to piping but also reduces costs related to water disposal and antifreeze, which are often needed in cold-weather scenarios. The equipment for vacuum testing is widely available, and many contractors already have the necessary tools, which makes adoption straightforward.
Ultimately, this new method provides contractors with more flexibility, especially in areas prone to freezing. By offering alternatives to the traditional water tests, the 2021 IPC helps minimize construction delays and potential damages, which is a win for both contractors and building owners.
In short, the inclusion of vacuum testing in the 2021 IPC gives builders a safer, more efficient option for verifying plumbing systems in cold climates, while potentially lowering construction costs in the process.
