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DRAFT
Prior to the design of new or replacement Plumbing Systems, the following preliminary testing may be required to determine the current levels or water flow, pressure or equipment and system functionality. This testing shall be executed by the Engineer of Record immediately upon transfer of the project, as results of this testing may determine changes to the project scope of work.
Service Pressure Testing
As early as possible, the existing service pressure shall be determined for the site. This can be obtained by contacting the Chicago Fire Department and obtaining the readings at the nearest fire hydrants. There may be multiple water service lines surrounding the site. Readings of all shall be obtained.
This information is vital in determining if pressure booster pumps shall be required for both Plumbing and Fire Protection. If these pumps are required, early knowledge of this is crucial to prevent possible redesign of the building spaces, power requirements and need for a Generator or other emergency devices.
Service Flow Testing
Along with the pressure testing, available service flow shall be determined. This may limit which existing service lines may be tapped in to for the project and may result in the need for booster pumps if the line with the proper flow availability does not have adequate pressure.
Site Utility Locations
In order to determine the best locations for a number of back-of-house spaces, the location of available utility mains is required. A full site utility plan of the project property shall be prepared, showing all underground utility locations, sizes and inverts. From this survey, and the flow and pressure data received, the likely utility tie in points shall be determined. From these locations, the location of rooms for the services entering and leaving the building shall be determined.