A flow test of a well shall be continuous for a period of at least ______ hours at 150% of the rated capacity of the fire pump with 15 minute intervals reading over the period of the test.

• A. 4 hours
• B. 6 hours
• C. 8 hours
• D. 12 hours

Answer: (C)

This tests what duration is required to prove a well can sustain firefighting flow over time. The standard requires the pump to run continuously at 150% of its rated capacity for a long enough period to reveal any gradual drop in performance, heat buildup, or drawdown effects, and to verify stability with regular measurements. Eight hours is the minimum duration that ensures the system can maintain the needed flow throughout a realistic, extended firefighting scenario. The readings every 15 minutes capture changes and confirm the flow stays at or above the required level for the entire test.

Shorter durations wouldn’t expose late-test issues, while longer durations aren’t needed for the standard.