During a drainage and vent water test, how long should the water be kept in the system?

During a drainage and vent water test, maintaining the water in the system for 15 minutes is essential for several reasons. This duration allows for thorough inspection of the plumbing system to ensure there are no leaks and that all connections are secure. It also provides adequate time for any potential issues, such as slow leaks or weak joints, to manifest, which might not be immediately apparent.

Furthermore, keeping the water in the system for this specified period aligns with industry practices and standards found in plumbing codes, which emphasize not just the integrity of the materials but also the performance of the entire system under conditions that mimic actual service. Failing to perform the test for the appropriate duration could lead to undetected problems, potentially resulting in significant issues after the plumbing is put into service.