5 Best Test Plugs for Plumbing: A Comprehensive Guide to Find the Right Plug
When it comes to plumbing, having the best test plugs on hand can make all the difference in a successful job. Test plugs are designed to give you a reliable seal of protection against backflow and leaks, making them an invaluable tool for any plumbing project. Whether you’re working on a small residential job or a large-scale commercial installation, understanding the different types of test plugs and their features can help ensure your work is done correctly and safely. In this introduction, we’ll discuss the perplexity and burstiness of test plug technology and how it can help you tackle any plumbing job with confidence.
Why Best Test Plugs for Plumbing Is Necessary?
Test plugs are essential to the plumbing industry, as they are used to seal off a system or section of pipes from the rest of the plumbing network. Test plugs allow for pressure testing of pipes and fixtures without having to disconnect them from the system. By virtue of their design, test plugs also help prevent contamination and air leakage in a system, ensuring that watertight seals are maintained within a plumbing network. They also provide an easy way to isolate sections of piping, which is useful for repairs or maintenance activities. Test plugs are therefore an invaluable tool in any professional plumber’s toolkit.
Comperision Chart for best test plugs for plumbing
Cherne 270040 Rubber Test Ball Pipe Plug, 4″ , Black
Safe-T-Seal TP123 Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water, 1-1/4″ to 3″ Inch
Safe-T-Seal TP34 Waffle Body Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water, 3 to 4 Inch
Safe-T-Seal TP34SB Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water, 3 to 4 Inch
Oatey Cherne 271047 Long Test-Ball 4-inch Plug, Color
Cherne 270040 Rubber Test Ball Pipe Plug 4 , Black

The Cherne 270040 Rubber Test Ball Pipe Plug is a versatile and durable test plug that is ideal for testing DWV plumbing systems. This 4″ plug features a broad expansion range, a zinc-plated steel chain and ring handle, and is made of natural rubber for durability and excellent expansion. The natural rubber body offers excellent expansion and memory, making it suitable for both round and out-of-round pipe. Additionally, the zinc-plated steel chain and ring handle acts as an anchor to prevent the plug from sliding down or being drawn into a line. With this test ball pipe plug, you can rest assured that your plumbing systems are tested with confidence at pressures up to 13 PSI or with 30 ft. of head pressure.
Why We Like This
4″ RUBBER TEST-BALL PLUG: Tests drain, vent, and waste systems in every type of pipe, ideal for testing DWV plumbing systems at pressures up to 13 PSI or with 30 ft. of head pressure
BROAD EXPANSION RANGE: Inflatable design fits easily in tight situations, offering broader expansion range than mechanical plugs
VERSATILE USES: Can seal both round and out-of-round pipe, fits easily through test tees, sanitary tees, floor drains, and other hard-to-access pipe openings
ZINC-PLATED STEEL CHAIN AND RING HANDLE: Acts as an anchor to prevent the plug from sliding down or being drawn into a line
LONG-LASTING AND DURABLE: Natural rubber body offers excellent expansion and memory as well as long-lasting durability so you can test plumbing systems with confidence
Common Questions & Answers
Q: What size is this product?
A: The Cherne 270040 Rubber Test Ball Pipe Plug is 4″.
Q: Can this product be used on different types of pipes?
A: Yes! It can be used on any type of pipe for testing drain, vent, and waste systems.
Q: How durable is this product?
A: The natural rubber body offers long lasting durability so you can use it with confidence.
Additional Product Information
Height | 6.5 |
Length | 4.25 |
Weight | 0.7 |
Width | 3.75 |
Size | 4 Inch |
Safe-T-Seal TP123 Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water 1-1-4 to 3 Inch

The Safe-T-Seal TP123 Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water is an excellent choice for anyone looking to test their pipes without any hassle. This versatile tool can fit 1-1/4″ to 3″ pipes and can be used with either air or water, making it incredibly versatile. The pressure relief valve releases excess air to prevent over inflation, and it has an inflation pressure of 45 psi and a max head pressure of 30 ft PSIG. The deflated diameter is 1 3/16″ and the inflate length is 6 1/4″.
Why We Like This
Made in USA with high quality for durability and reliability
Fits multiple sizes of pipe from 1-1/4″ to 3″ with air or water
Pressure relief valve releases excess air to prevent over inflation
Inflation pressure of 45 psi and max head pressure of 30 ft PSIG
Deflated diameter of 1 3/16 and inflate length of 6 1/4
Common Questions & Answers
Q: How long will the Safe-T-Seal TP123 last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, the Safe-T-Seal TP123 should last many years. It is made with high quality materials that are designed to stand up to regular use.
Q: Is it difficult to use?
A: Not at all! The Safe-T-Seal TP123 is designed to be easy to use even for beginners. It features a pressure relief valve that releases excess air so you don’t have to worry about over inflation. Additionally, its design fits multiple sizes of pipes with either air or water, making it incredibly versatile.
Q: Does this product come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Safe-T-Seal TP123 comes with an extensive manufacturer’s warranty that covers any defects in materials or workmanship.
Additional Product Information
Height | 1.87 |
Length | 8.5 |
Weight | 0.34 |
Width | 1.87 |
Size | 1-1/4-Inch to 2-Inch |
Safe-T-Seal TP34 Waffle Body Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water 3 to 4 Inch

The Safe-T-Seal TP34 Waffle Body Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water is an essential tool for any plumbing project. This commercial grade test plug is designed to fit pipes between three and four inches in diameter and can be used with both air and water. It has a patented pressure release safety valve to prevent over inflation or blow out, as well as a non-slip rubber waffle body for easy installation. The maximum head pressure it can handle is 30 ft/psig pressure 14, and the inflation pressure is 57 psi.
Why We Like This
Made in the USA with high quality material
Fits 3-4 inch pipes for both air and water
Pressure relief valve releases excess air, preventing overflow
Patented pressure release safety valve prevents over inflation or blow out
Non-slip rubber waffle body for easy installation
Common Questions & Answers
Q: What are the dimensions of this product?
A: The deflated diameter is 2 2/3 inches and the inflate length is 12 inches.
Q: Is this product suitable for new construction projects?
A: Yes, this product can be used to test water lines in new construction and renovation projects.
Q: What is the maximum head pressure this test plug can handle?
A: The maximum head pressure it can handle is 30 ft/psig pressure 14.
Additional Product Information
Height | 10.5 |
Length | 15.5 |
Weight | 0.9499999992033389 |
Width | 8 |
Size | 3-Inch to 4-Inch |
Safe-T-Seal TP34SB Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water 3 to 4 Inch

The Safe-T-Seal TP34SB Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable with Air or Water is a great choice for any job requiring 3 to 4 inch pipes. This commercial quality test plug is made in the USA with high quality materials, making it reliable and durable. It has an inflation pressure of 57 psi and a max head pressure of 30 ft/PSIG pressure 13. The deflated diameter is 2 2/3″ and the inflate length is 12″.
Why We Like This
Made in the USA with high quality materials, making it reliable and durable
Fits 3 to 4 inch pipes with air or water
Has an inflation pressure of 57 psi and a max head pressure of 30 ft/PSIG pressure 13
Deflated diameter is 2 2/3″ and inflate length is 12″
Pressure relief valve releases excess air
Common Questions & Answers
Q: What material is the Safe-T-Seal TP34SB Pneumatic Hydraulic Test Plug Inflatable made from?
A: The test plug is made from high quality materials in the USA.
Q: What size pipes does this test plug fit?
A: It fits 3 to 4 inch pipes with air or water.
Q: What are the inflation and head pressures for this test plug?
A: The inflation pressure is 57 psi and the max head pressure 30 ft/PSIG pressure 13.
Additional Product Information
Height | 3.5 |
Length | 4 |
Weight | 0.85 |
Width | 10 |
Size | 3-Inch to 4-Inch |
Oatey Cherne 271047 Long Test-Ball 4-inch Plug Color

Are you looking for a reliable and effective way to test your waste stack? Then you should try the Oatey Cherne 271047 Long Test-Ball 4-inch Plug! This plug is designed for waste stack testing from the floor drain to sewer pipe. With a long enough length to seal even a wye vertical riser and sewer run, this plug is an essential tool for any plumbing job. It also comes with an extension hose, so you can get the perfect fit every time. Plus, the ring and chain assembly will keep it from sliding down the line.
Why We Like This
Designed for waste stack testing from floor drain to sewer pipe
Long enough to seal wye vertical riser and sewer run
Includes 3′ extension hose
Ring and chain assembly prevents plug from sliding down a line
Available in a variety of colors so you can match your fixtures
Common Questions & Answers
Q: What is the Oatey Cherne 271047 Long Test-Ball 4-inch Plug used for?
A: This plug is designed for waste stack testing from the floor drain to sewer pipe.
Q: Does it come with any additional items?
A: Yes, this plug comes with an extension hose and ring and chain assembly.
Q: Is there more than one color available?
A: Yes, this plug is available in a variety of colors so you can match your fixtures.
Additional Product Information
Height | 4 |
Length | 24.75 |
Weight | 2.7 |
Width | 4 |
Benefits of Best Test Plugs for Plumbing
1. Easy installation – Test plugs are designed to be easy to install and use, which means that even novice plumbers can quickly and easily make use of them.
2. Cost-effective – Test plugs are often more cost-effective than other plumbing solutions, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.
3. Durable – Test plugs are designed to be incredibly durable, meaning they can withstand the wear and tear of daily use without failing or causing plumbing problems.
4. Versatile – Test plugs are versatile enough to be used in a wide variety of plumbing applications, from residential plumbing to commercial and industrial settings.
5. Safety – Test plugs provide a reliable way of testing for leaks or other issues without risking damage to the pipes or fixtures in the process.
Buying Guide for best test plugs for plumbing
Types of Test Plugs
Test plugs come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the purpose they are intended to serve. Depending on what kind of plumbing system you have, you will need to choose the right type of test plug for the job. Here are some of the most common types:
– Push-fit Plugs: These are easily recognizable by their cylindrical shape and are designed to fit into a pipe opening with a simple push of your hand. They come in different sizes and materials, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications.
– Ball Plugs: This type of plug is made from a hollow sphere with a hole in the center for inserting a valve or other flushable device. They are commonly used for sealing off water supply lines or other pipes that need to be closed off during testing or repairs.
– Threaded Plugs: These plugs have threads along their circumference which allow them to be screwed into place. They are usually made from brass or stainless steel and are ideal for use in high pressure systems.
– Expanding Plugs: These plugs feature an expanding rubber seal which allows them to provide a tight seal when inserted into any size pipe opening. They can be used on both hot and cold water lines and are often used as temporary solutions while permanent repairs are being made.
Material Quality
When choosing test plugs, it is important to consider the material quality as this will determine how durable they will be over time. The most common materials used in test plug construction include brass, stainless steel, rubber, plastic, and PVC. All of these materials have their own set of advantages and disadvantages so it is important to compare them before making your final decision.
Brass has excellent corrosion resistance but is not very strong compared to other metals like stainless steel or aluminum. Stainless steel has high strength but can be expensive compared to other materials like rubber or plastic. Rubber offers good flexibility but may not provide as tight of a seal as metal or plastic plugs do. Plastic offers good insulation properties but may not last as long as metal plugs do under extreme conditions such as high pressure or temperature fluctuations. PVC is generally inexpensive but may not provide the same level of protection that metal plugs do from corrosion and wear over time.
Size Considerations
When selecting test plugs, it is important to take into account the size of the pipe opening you will be using them with as well as any valves or other flushable devices that need to fit inside the plug body itself. If you choose something too small then it won’t fit properly and could lead to leaks or worse yet burst pipes if subjected to too much pressure! On the flip side if you choose something too large then it won’t create an adequate seal which could also lead to leaks over time due to wear and tear on the material itself from repeated use over time. It is best practice when purchasing test plugs that they should fit snugly but not too snugly so that they can still be easily removed when needed without damaging either the plug body or whatever device was being held back by it in order for testing purposes etc..
Price Range
Test plugs generally come at varying price points depending on what type, material quality, size etc.. they offer so make sure you compare prices before settling on one particular brand/model so you dont end up paying more than necessary for something else that might suffice just fine! Additionally many online retailers offer discounts when buying multiple items at once so keep an eye out for those too if possible!
In conclusion, the best test plugs for plumbing can depend on the specific plumbing application. Different types of test plugs are available for different types of pipes and applications, and choosing the right one is key to ensuring a successful repair or installation. When in doubt, it’s best to consult a professional plumber or hardware store for advice and guidance.
Author Profile

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Star Plumbing, located in Elkins Park, PA, is a full-service plumbing company owned and operated by Mitchell Gordon. Since its inception, Star Plumbing has been providing its customers with reliable, quality plumbing services.
The Star Plumbing website offers informative articles on DIY plumbing and plumbing equipment, offering readers helpful advice and tips on how to take care of their own plumbing needs. As for professional plumbers, the website provides detailed descriptions of the various plumbing tools and equipment that are available, as well as detailed instructions on how to use them.
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