In a new pipe installation leak test, what is the preferred method for measuring makeup water volume?

• A. a flow meter
• B. a gauge
• C. calibrated makeup reservoir
• D. a bucket with measurement

Answer: (C)

Measuring makeup water volume accurately is essential for determining the leak rate during a new pipe installation leak test. A calibrated makeup reservoir provides a known, read-ready volume of water added to the system, giving a precise and traceable measurement of makeup water. This approach stays reliable regardless of how quickly water is introduced or how the test progresses, and it minimizes errors from estimating in a bucket or from flow-rate readings that don’t directly translate to total volume. A gauge measures pressure, not how much water was added, so it doesn’t help determine makeup volume. A bucket with measurement is easy to spill, misread, or miss some water, leading to inaccuracies. In short, the calibrated makeup reservoir offers a direct, accurate, and recordable way to quantify makeup water during the test.