Can you test a shower drain before Installing the shower pan?

[Rbemiller]

I'm aware of the concept of testing an installed shower pan for leaks. However, I'd like to test the PVC drain before I install the pan. I want to make sure water gets down the pipe and through the trap without backing up, before I go through all of the work of installing the pan and drain. What's the best way to do that? Just pour a pitcher of water down it?

 

[Reach4]

How about using a garden hose?

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Terry]

A full test would be to plug it below and fill it to the flood level of the vents.
That doesn't really happen on remodels though. Pouring water down the drain is the next best.

 

[Rbemiller]

Thanks to both of you for confirming and easing my concerns!

 

[Jeff H Young]

assuming you mean test drain piping and not shower drain itself. yes we put a 10 ft head on new plumbing work, or if you are making a minor modification by all means test with garden hose, another way is to hire a camera inspection