During a hydrostatic test, where should the gauge be installed on the system to comply with code?

The gauge should be installed at the highest point of the system during a hydrostatic test to comply with code. This placement is crucial because it allows for the most accurate assessment of the system's pressure, ensuring that any potential air pockets are eliminated prior to testing. When the gauge is positioned at the highest point, it can provide a true reading of the pressure throughout the entire system, helping to identify any weaknesses or leaks that may not be detectable from other locations.

Placing the gauge at other points, such as the lowest point or near the pump, could result in misleading readings. The lowest point may not accurately represent the full pressure of the system, and placing it too close to the pump could also fail to capture the entire system's pressure dynamics, particularly in a system that has elevation changes or complex piping configurations. Therefore, positioning the gauge at the highest point ensures compliance with testing standards and the integrity of the test results.