Plumbers Bellows

About Plumbers Bellows

Plumbers bellows are essential hand tools used primarily for testing drainage systems and pipework to ensure they are properly sealed and free from leaks. These manual air pumps allow plumbers and heating engineers to pressurise a sealed section of pipe, creating a controlled pressure environment that reveals any weaknesses or defects in the system. When used in conjunction with a U-gauge and appropriate test nipples, plumbers bellows provide a simple yet effective method for verifying the integrity of drainage installations before they are commissioned or concealed.

The bellows themselves consist of a collapsible chamber with a non-return valve, operated by squeezing handles together to force air into the connected system. Quality hand bellows feature durable rubber or synthetic materials that maintain their flexibility even after repeated use, with reinforced seams to prevent air loss during testing. Tooled-Up.com stocks hand bellows from trusted manufacturers including Bailey and Monument, alongside the essential accessories such as Y-pieces and rubber tubing required to create a complete drain testing kit.

For professional tradespeople working to Building Regulations and industry standards, proper drain testing is not just good practice—it's often a legal requirement. Using reliable plumbers bellows ensures that drainage systems are tested thoroughly before installation is signed off, preventing costly callbacks and potential damage from undetected leaks.

Jargon Buster

• Hand Bellows: A manual air pump operated by squeezing two handles together, used to introduce controlled air pressure into sealed drainage systems for leak testing purposes.
• U-Gauge: A transparent, U-shaped tube partially filled with liquid that measures air pressure in the system being tested. The difference in liquid levels indicates the pressure, with any rapid drop suggesting a leak.
• Test Nipple: A specialized fitting that connects to the drain or pipe opening, providing an airtight seal and connection point for the testing equipment via rubber tubing.
• Y-Piece: A three-way connector that links the hand bellows, U-gauge, and test nipple together using rubber tubing, allowing simultaneous pressurisation and monitoring.
• Drain Testing: The process of sealing a section of drainage pipework and pressurising it with air to verify there are no leaks before the system is put into service or buried.
• Non-Return Valve: A one-way valve integrated into the bellows that prevents air from escaping back through the pump once it has been introduced into the test system.

Who Uses Plumbers Bellows?

• Plumbers and heating engineers conducting drainage installations and testing compliance
• Building contractors verifying drainage systems before sign-off on new construction projects
• Maintenance engineers in commercial and industrial facilities testing existing drainage infrastructure
• Bathroom and kitchen fitters ensuring waste pipe connections are leak-free
• Property developers and builders meeting Building Regulations requirements for drainage testing
• DIY enthusiasts undertaking home renovation projects involving new drainage installations
• Local authority building inspectors verifying compliance with current regulations
• Facilities management teams maintaining drainage systems in commercial properties

How to Choose the Right Plumbers Bellows

When selecting plumbers bellows, prioritise build quality and material durability, as these tools must maintain an airtight seal over hundreds of compression cycles. Look for models with reinforced rubber chambers and sturdy handle construction that won't crack or perish prematurely. Bailey and Monument both offer reliable hand bellows that have proven themselves on professional job sites across the UK.

Consider whether you need a complete drain testing kit or individual components. If you're starting from scratch, you'll require hand bellows, a Y-piece connector, sufficient rubber tubing, a U-gauge, and appropriate test nipples for your application. The range available from Tooled-Up includes both complete systems and individual replacement components for existing setups.

Check the capacity and pressure range suitable for your typical applications. While most hand bellows are designed for standard domestic drainage testing, ensure the specifications match the pipe diameters and pressure requirements you commonly encounter. The positive hand-operated design should allow for controlled, gradual pressurisation without over-stressing the system being tested.

Ergonomics matter when you're conducting multiple tests in a working day. Choose bellows with comfortable handles that reduce hand fatigue, and ensure all connections are compatible with standard rubber tubing sizes. Portability is another consideration—compact, lightweight designs are easier to transport between job sites and store in your van without taking up valuable space.

Popular Accessories

• U-Gauges: Essential for measuring and monitoring air pressure during drain testing procedures
• Rubber Tubing: Flexible connectors linking the bellows, gauge, and test points—available in various lengths
• Y-Piece Connectors: Three-way junction pieces that create the necessary connections between testing components
• Drain Test Nipples: Various sizes to suit different pipe diameters and applications
• Expanding Drain Plugs: Used to seal pipe ends during testing procedures
• Test Pump Maintenance Kits: Replacement seals and valves to extend the life of your bellows
• Tool Bags and Cases: Protective storage solutions keeping your drain testing equipment organised

Frequently Asked Questions

What pressure should I use when testing drains with bellows?

For domestic drainage systems, a test pressure of 38mm (1.5 inches) water gauge is typically used, maintained for at least three minutes. The pressure should remain stable throughout the test period—any drop indicates a leak that must be located and rectified before the system is approved.

How do I know if my plumbers bellows are working correctly?

Connect the bellows to a sealed container or pipe system with a U-gauge attached. Pump the bellows and observe whether pressure builds and holds steady. If pressure drops immediately when you stop pumping, the bellows may have a faulty valve or damaged seal requiring replacement.

Can I use plumbers bellows for pressure testing water pipes?

No, hand bellows are specifically designed for low-pressure air testing of drainage and waste systems. Water supply pipes require significantly higher pressures and must be tested using dedicated hydraulic test pumps or the mains water supply itself, following appropriate standards and procedures.

What's the difference between air testing and water testing drains?

Air testing using bellows is quicker, cleaner, and doesn't add weight to newly installed pipework. It's ideal for above-ground and internal drainage. Water testing involves filling the system with water and is often used for underground drains. Both methods are valid, with the choice depending on the specific application and local requirements.

How often should I replace the rubber components in my drain testing kit?

Inspect rubber tubing, bellows chambers, and seals regularly for signs of perishing, cracking, or loss of flexibility. With proper care and storage away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, quality components should last several years. Replace any component immediately if it shows damage or fails to maintain pressure during testing.