Pressure Test Service — Precise Pool Plumbing Leak Diagnostics

Isolated line pressure testing for skimmer, return, and main drain lines — air/water tests, section-by-section isolation, and clear reporting to pinpoint leak zones and plan repairs

Over 100 5-Star Reviews in Suffolk & Nassau
Licensed & Insured
Serving Suffolk & Nassau Counties
Empire Pools
4.3
Based on 167 reviews
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Pressure Test • Long Island

Pressure Test Service — Pinpoint Pool Plumbing Leaks

Line-by-line diagnostics for skimmers, returns, main drains, and features. We isolate, pressurize, and monitor each run to identify leak zones and provide a clear, prioritized repair plan.

Test Setup & Isolation — prep for accurate results

Cap/plug selected lines, configure valves, and bypass equipment so each circuit can be tested independently without cross-flow.

Clean test conditions

Pressurize & Monitor — air/water at target PSI

Introduce air or water to manufacturer-safe levels and track pressure over time using calibrated gauges for pass/fail verification.

Measurable hold test

Segment-by-Segment Testing — pinpoint the run

Individually test skimmer, returns, main drain, and water features to isolate which section is dropping and how quickly.

Isolated leak zone

Fittings & Equipment Check — rule out false fails

Inspect unions, pump lid, multiport/valves, and heater bypass for sealing issues so results reflect plumbing, not equipment leaks.

Validated readings

Observation & Correlation — relate to symptoms

Compare pressure loss to real-world signs: air in pump, bubbles at returns, water loss rate, or wet areas near plumbing paths.

Evidence-based

Mark-Out & Next Steps — plan the fix

Identify the likely section for excavation or repair, advise on sonic/location aids if needed, and outline repair options with ETA.

Clear action plan

Documentation — pressures, times, results

Record start/hold PSI, duration, media used (air/water), pass/fail for each line, and any contributing factors affecting results.

Written report

Photos & Reporting — transparent findings

Provide photos of test setups and gauges plus straightforward recommendations for repair sequence and estimated scope.

Clear next steps

Pressure Test 101

What a Pool Pressure Test Is, Why It Matters, and How We Perform It

What is a pressure test?
A pressure test is a controlled check of your pool’s underground plumbing lines (skimmer(s), returns, main drain(s), cleaner and feature lines). We isolate each circuit, seal it, apply a safe test pressure using water or low-pressure air, and watch a calibrated gauge for a timed hold. A stable reading means the line is watertight; a drop indicates a leak or valve/fitting issue that needs locating and repair.

Why is it performed?
• Confirm if water loss is plumbing-related vs. evaporation or shell/liner issues.
Identify which line is failing before excavation or specialty leak detection.
• Verify work after a repair or before closing/opening, real estate inspections, or insurance documentation.
• Reduce guesswork and cost by targeting the problem line first.

What it includes vs. doesn’t include
Includes: isolation/plugging, gauge setup, pressurization, timed holds, and a pass/fail report with recommendations.
Doesn’t include: digging, line repairs, or non-plumbing leak sources (e.g., shell/liner punctures) unless you’ve booked add-on detection services. If a line fails, we’ll outline pinpoint options (acoustic “listening,” tracer methods, dye tests at fittings) and repair paths.

How we perform it — step by step
1) Initial checks: Review symptoms (daily loss, air in pump, bubbles), inspect pad (valves, unions, multiport) and label circuits.
2) Isolate & plug: Safe, removable plugs at pool fittings (skimmer, returns, drains) and pad manifolds to test one circuit at a time.
3) Gauge & fill: Attach a calibrated gauge/manifold. For best accuracy and safety we favor water-based tests; low-pressure air may be used for specific conditions.
4) Apply test pressure: Bring the circuit to a controlled, appropriate level for the line/equipment and stabilize the reading.
5) Timed hold: Monitor the gauge over a defined interval to detect any measurable drop (temperature/expansion is accounted for).
6) Trace & confirm (if fail): Use sectional isolation and acoustic/listening techniques; check fittings/valves for bubbles or moisture; correlate with dye at suspect interfaces.
7) Repeat per circuit: Test skimmer(s), return loop(s), main drain(s), cleaners, and features as applicable.
8) Results & next steps: Provide a clear written pass/fail summary, likely cause(s), and options: targeted detection, spot repair, or line replacement.

Safety & best practices
• We use regulated pressure suitable for pool PVC and components, avoiding over-pressurization.
• Equipment not designed for pressure (e.g., heaters) is bypassed or isolated during testing.
• In cold weather we prevent trapped water in lines from freezing after testing.
• Main drains may require specialty isolation or a diver depending on configuration.

PRESSURE TEST

What to Expect on the Day of Your Pressure Test Service

Unexplained water loss or air in the system often points to hidden line issues. Our pressure test isolates and verifies each plumbing line to pinpoint leaks with minimal disruption to your pool area.

Step-by-Step Timeline

  • Arrival & inspection — Review symptoms, confirm access, and note equipment/valve layout.
  • Isolation — Cap/plug lines and set gauges/valves to test suction, returns, and features separately.
  • Pressurize & monitor — Bring lines to target PSI and observe for stable holds or pressure drops.
  • Locate & document — Identify pass/fail lines and narrow the leak zone; record readings for your report.
  • Next steps — Review results and provide clear recommendations/quotes for any needed repairs.

What to Have Ready — It Speeds Up the Visit

  • Clear access to the equipment pad, skimmer(s), returns, and water features.
  • Turn off auto-fill and mark the waterline 24 hours before testing.
  • Let us know about any special access considerations around landscaping or hardscaping.

After the Visit

  • Receive a summary with pass/fail lines and recorded PSI readings.
  • If a leak is indicated, we’ll outline repair options and scheduling for the next step.

Need help deciding?

We’ll Perform a Professional Pressure Test—Precisely

Not sure where the leak is?
Text us your pool’s layout, a few photos of the equipment pad, and the symptoms (water loss per day, air in lines, bubbles, prime issues). We’ll confirm which lines to test—skimmer(s), returns, main drain(s), cleaners, and water features.

Pressure tests include line isolation & plugging, gauge setup, air/water pressurization, and measured holds to verify each line. You receive a clear pass/fail report with next-step options if a leak is indicated.

Want a professional eye?
We’ll inspect the equipment pad, valves, unions, multiport, and visible plumbing before testing to rule out surface issues and set accurate baselines.

Expect transparent pricing, clear timelines, and documented results—no guesswork. If a line fails, we’ll outline targeted leak detection or repair options to resolve it quickly.

Why Choose Empire Pools Inc. for a Pressure Test Service

Expertise
Certified leak-detection technicians isolate and test individual lines—skimmer, returns, main drain, and features—using calibrated gauges and safe air/water PSI. We perform static and dynamic hold tests and correlate results with symptoms like bubbles, air in pump, and daily water loss.
Reliability
Fast scheduling and tidy setups that prevent cross-flow or false readings. We cap/plug correctly, monitor PSI precisely, and provide same-day summaries when possible—so repair decisions can move forward without delays.
Transparency
You receive a written report with start/hold PSI, duration, media used (air or water), and pass/fail by line—plus photos of gauge setups. If optional steps are advisable (sonic listening, tracer gas, dye tests), we explain them and get approval first.
Flexibility
Single-line checks or full-system testing for concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass pools—including attached spas and water features. Service across Nassau & Suffolk with methods tailored to your plumbing layout, materials, and site access.

Long Island’s Trusted Pool Pros

Real customers. Real results. Join thousands who swim easier with Empire Pools.

25+ YearsServing Suffolk & Nassau
100+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Google Reviews
6 Service VansGPS-tracked & geo-tagged
48-Hour FixNo green, guaranteed
“Clear in one visit.” We hired Empire after another company struggled. Night and day difference—photos after each visit. — Megan P., Setauket
“On time, every week.” The reminders and ETA texts are awesome. Pool’s never looked better. — Anthony R., Sayville
“Professional & fair.” Tech explained everything, balanced the water perfectly, and followed up the next day. — Diane N., Smithtown

Booking at Empire Pools

From Quote to Follow-Up — Exactly How Your Service Is Managed

Every service starts with a no-pressure quote and a 30-day price lock. We keep you informed by text & email at every milestone, right up to the 24–48 hr check-in after the job.

1
Request Your Quote (No Pressure)

Tell us what you need—weekly, opening, closing, power vac, liner, Loop-Loc, leak, or repair. We quote clearly so you can review details without sales pressure.

Phone or Online 30-Day Price Lock Detailed Scope
2
Approve & Sign

When you approve the quote, our office is notified automatically. You’ll instantly receive a confirmation email + text acknowledging your approval.

E-Signature Instant Acknowledgment Auto-Notify Office
3
We Reach Out to Schedule

A coordinator contacts you promptly to pick the best date/time. We confirm access notes (gate, pets, cover, water level) so service is smooth.

Friendly Scheduling Access Checklist
4
Booking Confirmation

As soon as your appointment is set, you receive both a confirmation email and a confirmation text with your date/time.

Text + Email Calendar-Ready
5
Two-Day Reminder

Exactly 2 days before, we send an email and a text reminder so you can plan around your service window.

T-48 hr Reminder Email + SMS
6
Same-Day Reminder

On the morning of service, you’ll get another email and text reaffirming that you’re on today’s route.

Morning Reminder Status: On Today’s Route
7
30–45 Min ETA from the Van

About 30–45 minutes prior to arrival, the tech driving your GPS-tracked, fully-stocked van will call or text you directly with an ETA.

Live ETA Direct From Service Van Call or Text
8
Completion Notice & 24–48 hr Follow-Up

When the job is finished, you receive a real-time completion text + email (often with photos/notes). After 24–48 hours, we follow up again to make sure you’re thrilled — or we make it right.

Instant Completion Notice Photo/Notes Included 24–48 hr Check-In

Our Guarantee

We Stand Behind Our Work

The Empire Pools Pressure Test Service Guarantee

After a Pressure Test Service, we expect clear, accurate results with documented PSI holds for each line. If something seems off, contact the office—we’ll re-verify setups and retest service-related items as needed.

  • Happiness First: Not satisfied with your pressure test results? Tell us. We return to re-verify plugs/caps, gauge setup, and hold times—promptly and professionally.
  • Transparent Next Steps: If root causes are found (confirmed line leak, valve failure, cracked fitting, underground breach), we explain options—line isolation, sonic listening/tracer gas, and repair pricing—before any additional work.
  • Photo & Reading Verification: We document start/hold PSI, duration, test medium (air/water), and line isolation photos so you can see exactly what was done and why.

Need help deciding?

We’ll Help You Pick the Right Service—Fast

Not sure which service solves your issue?
Text us a couple photos and a quick note about what’s going on—cloudy water, leak symptoms, equipment noise, heater error, torn liner, etc. We’ll match the right service and explain exactly what’s included.

We handle openings/closings, weekly & biweekly care, green-to-clean power vacs, leak detection, liner installs, equipment upgrades (pumps/filters/heaters), salt conversions, and more.

Prefer step-by-step guidance?
We’ll review your setup, goals, and budget; outline the options; and give you a clear next step. No jargon, no pressure.

Expect straight answers, transparent pricing, and a route slot that fits your schedule. We stay with you from first message to final follow-up.

Referral Program

Referral Rewards

Earn $50 every time you refer a friend — they save $50 too.

Love our service? Share it with neighbors and friends. When they book, you’ll both get rewarded — no limits, stack as many credits as you like.

Credits applied after your referral completes their first paid service with Empire Pools.

Card on File Policy

Secure Card on File — Required to Schedule Service

To streamline scheduling and protect against delays, a credit/debit card on file is required for all service visits. Setup is quick and secure—done from your phone or computer—so we can dispatch your technician without payment hassles.

The easiest way: text the word “LINK” to 631-928-0225. You’ll receive a secure payment link to enter your card details in the privacy of your home. Once submitted, you’ll get an instant confirmation text that your information is safely stored and your account is ready for service.

Why We Require It — faster, smoother service

Card-on-file keeps visits on schedule, prevents return trips for payments, and speeds up approvals for add-ons you request.

Zero friction scheduling

How It Works — text “LINK”

Text LINK to our office number. Tap the secure link we send, complete your info, and submit. You’ll receive an immediate success text.

2-minute setup

Security & Compliance — bank-level protection

Cards are tokenized and stored by our PCI-DSS compliant processor. We do not store your full card number on our systems.

Encrypted • Tokenized

When We Charge — only for approved work

Your card is used after services are performed or when you approve estimates/add-ons. Itemized receipts are texted or emailed.

Transparent billing

Holds / Pre-Auths — what to expect

A small verification or pre-authorization may appear temporarily; it’s released per your bank’s policy.

Standard banking practice

Multiple Properties — keep accounts organized

We can associate one card with multiple addresses or keep separate cards per property—your choice.

Flexible account setup

Update or Remove — you're in control

Update or remove your card at any time—text LINK for a new secure form or contact the office.

Easy self-service

Receipts & Records — instant proof

Every charge generates an itemized receipt via text/email for your records and warranty support.

Automatic receipts

Empire Pools • Service Area

Where We Service on Long Island

We proudly service the majority of Nassau and Suffolk County with fast response times and full-service capability. To keep routes tight (and prices fair), we focus on areas where we can deliver reliable, on-time visits all season long.

  • Nassau County: We service most towns across Nassau, including the South Shore as far west as Valley Stream and Malverne. We do not service the far-north Gold Coast towns such as Great Neck and Locust Valley.
  • Suffolk County: Strong coverage in west/central Suffolk. We do not service the East End—no service east of Calverton or east of Bellport (including Hamptons & North Fork).
  • Fast scheduling where we operate most: Dense routes mean quicker ETAs and better pricing in our primary Nassau & Suffolk zones.
  • Not sure if you’re in range? Text your address, town, and nearest cross street. We’ll confirm coverage and the earliest route day in minutes.

Pressure Test Service — Top 15 FAQs

Everything homeowners ask about pool leak diagnostics—symptoms, line isolation, test methods, safety, documentation, and what happens next.

What are the most common signs I need a pressure test?

Noticeable water loss (over ~¼–½” per day), air in the pump basket, bubbles from returns, recurring loss of prime, wet spots near decking, or frequent autofill cycling are strong indicators of a plumbing leak that warrants testing.

How is a pressure test performed?

We isolate each line with plugs/unions, connect calibrated gauges, and pressurize with air or water to a safe, defined PSI for a timed hold.

Any pressure drop indicates a leak. We then narrow the section and, if needed, use acoustic listening or tracer gas to pinpoint the break.

Which lines do you test?

Skimmer(s), returns, main drain (when safe/accessible), cleaner/suction lines, attached spa lines, and water features. We isolate and test each independently for clear results.

Do you use air or water for testing?

We select the medium based on pool type and conditions—air for sensitivity and listening, water (hydro) to confirm and for certain vinyl/fiberglass scenarios.

In many cases we use a combination: initial air test to find a drop, followed by a water hold to verify and document.

Is pressure testing safe for my plumbing and equipment?

Yes—when performed correctly. We isolate equipment, follow safe PSI limits, monitor gauges continuously, and never exceed appropriate pressures for your plumbing material.

How long does a pressure test take?

Typically 60–120 minutes depending on the number of lines, access, and findings.

Complex systems or multiple suspected leaks may require additional time for segmenting and pinpointing.

What happens if a line fails the test?

We isolate the failing section, mark the suspected area, and present repair options—spot dig and fix, reroute, or sleeve/patch—along with a clear estimate and timeline.

Can you locate underground leaks without digging?

Often, yes. We use acoustic listening, tracer gas with electronic sniffers, and section-by-section isolation to narrow locations before any excavation is considered.

Will you test my main drain line?

When accessible and safe, we can test main drains via the sump/hydrostatic valve. Safety and code compliance (covers/valves) are verified before proceeding.

How much does a pressure test cost?

Pressure testing typically starts at $285 + tax for a basic system. Additional lines, attached spas, or advanced pinpoint methods are quoted before we proceed.

What should I do before the appointment?

Fill water to mid-skimmer, ensure power at the pad, clear access to equipment and skimmers/returns, and secure pets. A short video of the issue helps us prep.

Will you fix the leak the same day?

Pressure testing is diagnostic. Minor above-ground fittings may be corrected immediately if parts are on hand.

Underground or structural repairs are scheduled with a written estimate and plan.

Do you provide documentation for insurance or HOA?

Yes—PSI readings, hold times, photos of isolation points, and our findings/recommendations are included in a summary you can share with insurers or HOAs.

How quickly can you schedule a pressure test?

We prioritize active water loss. Many tests can be scheduled quickly based on route availability—contact us for the next opening.

How do I schedule a Pressure Test Service with Empire Pools?

Text us photos of your equipment pad and note daily water loss—We’ll confirm the test scope and provide a same-day estimate.

Ready to Enjoy Your Pool?

Don’t let maintenance take the joy out of your swimming season. Empire Pools handles it all— from water and filter care to ensuring your equipment runs smoothly. Schedule service today and get ready to enjoy your pool with total peace of mind.

Book now and we’ll tailor a plan around your needs so your pool is always ready for you and your loved ones.

Serving Suffolk & Nassau • Licensed & Insured • Over 100 five-star reviews

Book Your Pressure Test Service Today!

Suspect a leak—dropping water level, air in lines, or unexplained pressure changes? Empire Pools performs professional pressure testing to isolate problem lines, verify pressure hold, and provide clear repair options—so you know exactly what needs fixing.

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