Plumbing Flashcards
1
Q
Potable water is
a. water people can safely drink.
b. well water.
c. water suitable for cooking and washing but not drinking.
d. water with an e-coli reading of more than 25.
A
a. Potable water is water that is safe to drink.
2
Q
Which of the following statements is true about water flow and pressure in regard to pipes in residential plumbing systems?
a. The pressure is highest when there is no water flowing.
b. The pressure is highest at the outlet point of the pipe.
c. As more pressure is applied to a given pipe length with an open faucet at the end, the flow rate will remain the same.
d. The flow rate in a pipe is greater close to the source than at the outlet.
A
a. The pressure is highest when there is no water flowing.
3
Q
Pressure loss due to friction
a. is zero when there is no water flowing.
b. cannot exceed 20 psi.
c. is independent of pipe length.
d. is independent of pipe wall smoothness.
A
a. There is no pressure loss due to friction when there is no water flowing.
4
Q
How much water flows through a 3/4-inch-diameterpipe relative to a 1/2-inch-diameter pipe with the same pressure-loss?
a. 150 percent
b. 200 percent
c. 250 percent
d. 270 percent
A
d. Roughly 270 percent more water will flow through a 3/4-inch-diameter pipe than a 1/2-inch-diameter pipe.
5
Q
Excess water pressure may lead to
a. excess water velocity.
b. excess friction loss.
c. longer operating periods for clothes washers.
d. splashing and excessive siphoning as toilets are flushed.
A
a. Excess water pressure may lead to excess water velocity.
6
Q
If you wanted to fill a bucket, which of the following fixtures with faucets fully opened would fill it the most quickly? (Assume that pipe length, size, and pressure are equal for all of these.)
a. Bathroom basin
b. Kitchen sink
c. Outdoor hose bib
d. Bathtub fill spout
A
d. The quickest way to fill a bucket is with the bathtub fill spout.
7
Q
Causes of poor pressure and flow in a house include all of the following EXCEPT
a. undersized piping.
b. rusted piping
c. a gate-valve-type main valve.
d. leaks.
A
c. A gate valve does not cause poor pressure and/or flow.
8
Q
Which of the following 1/2-inch-diameter pipes would have the lowest pressure and flow characteristics?
a. A 50-foot pipe with the outlet at the same elevation as the Source
b. A 50-foot pipe with the outlet 20 feet above the source
c. A 100-foot pipe with the outlet IO feet above the source
d. A l00-foot pipe with the outlet 20 feet above the source
A
d. The lowest pressure and flow characteristics would belong to the 100-foot pipe with the outlet 20 feet above the source.
9
Q
Which of the following has no effect on water pressure and flow?
a. How smooth the pipe is
b. What the static pressure is
c. How fast the valve closes
d. How high it is being pushed uphill
A
c. Flow fast the valve closes has no effect on water pressure and flow.
10
Q
Bored wells are typically
a. deeper than 200 feet.
b. deeper than 400 feet.
c. shallower than 100 feet.
d. 12 inches in dian1eter.
A
c. Bored wells are shallower than 100 feet.
11
Q
A submersible pump in a 200-foot-deep drilled well is under 70 feet of water. The top of the well is 15 feet below the basement of the house. How much static head is present?
a. 70 feet
b. 130feet
c. 200 feet
d. 215 feet
A
a. The static head for a submersible pump 70 feet under water is 70 feet.
12
Q
If you see three pipes at a jet pump in the basement, it means that
a. the pump is feeding two separate pressure tanks.
b. the well must be deeper than 50 feet.
c. the suction line has been replaced because of obstruction.
d. the venturi is in the well, lake, or river.
A
d. If you see three pipes at a jet pump in the house, this means that the venturi is in the well, lake, river, or whatever the source may be.
13
Q
Which of the following is NOT a cause for an inoperative pump?
a. The motor is burned out.
b. The discharge line is split.
c. The control switch for the pump is not working.
d. There is no electricity at the pump.
A
b. A split discharge line is not a cause for an inoperative pump.
14
Q
The purpose of the pressure tank is to
a. increase the pressure in the system.
b. prevent the pump from short cycling.
c. decrease the flow rate through the pump.
d. prevent over-pressurizing the supply piping system.
A
b. The pressure tank helps to prevent the pump from short cycling.
15
Q
What would the difference be in static pressure readings on a vertical pipe at zero elevation and at a 20-foot elevation?
a. 4.5 psi
b. 9 psi
c. 17 psi
d. 20 psi
A
b. A 20-foot elevation difference would cause a pressure differential of roughly 9 psi.
16
Q
What kind of a flow rate from a well is usually considered acceptable?
a. 2 gpm
b. 3 gpm
c. 5 gpm
d. 10 gpm
A
b. A 3 gpm flow rate is usually considered acceptable from a private well.
17
Q
Which of the following is the most serious problem with a well supplying water to a house?
a. Less than optimum water quantity
b. A piston-type pump on a well
c. Contaminated well water
d. A well that is too close to the property line
A
c. Contaminated well water is the most serious problem you can have because it is a life safety issue. Running out of water is an inconvenience but is not life threatening.
18
Q
Drilled wells
a. are up to 100 feet deep.
b. are often four inches in diameter.
c. need no well casing.
d. cannot have submersible pumps.
A
b. Drilled wells are typically four to six inches in diameter.
19
Q
Common well problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. poor surface grading.
b. missing casing.
c. recovery rate of 10-15 gpm.
d. not enough water.
A
c. A recovery rate of 10 gpm to 15 gpm is not a problem.
20
Q
Which of the following pumps definitely does NOT need priming?
a. Jet pump
b. Submersible pump
c. Deep well pump
d. Shallow well pump
A
b. Submersible pumps do not need priming because they are always surrounded by water.
21
Q
Typical pump problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. inoperativeness.
b. excess noise or vibration.
c. excess pressure.
d. running continuously.
A
c. Excess pressure is not a pump problem.
22
Q
Common problems with shutoff valves in the house include all of the following EXCEPT
a. missing valves.
b. leaking valves.
c. damaged handles.
d. location in a basement.
A
d. Shut off valves are frequently located in basements. This is not a problem.
23
Q
What is galvanic action?
a. Corrosion that occurs when two dissimilar metals touch
b. Connecting ABS and PVC piping together in a plumbing system
c. Gurgling noise in the drain system
d. Failure mode peculiar to brass piping
A
a. Galvanic action is corrosion that occurs when dissimilar metals contact each other, in a plumbing system, for example.
24
Q
The water service line diameter from the street to new houses should be at least
a. 1/4-inch.
b. 1/2-inch.
c. 3/4-inch.
d. 1-inch.
A
c. The water service line diameter from the street to the house in a new construction should be a least 3/4-inch.
25
The supply water piping diameter inside houses should be at least
a. 1/4-inch.
b. 1/2-inch.
c. 3/4-inch.
d. 1-inch.
b. The supply water piping diameter inside houses should be at least 1/2 inch.
26
Supply water pressure inside the house should NOT exceed
a. 40 psi.
b. 50 psi.
c. 80 psi.
d. 150 psi.
c. Supply water pressure inside the house should not be more than 80 psi.
27
Horizontal plastic water pipe should be supported every
a. 4 feet.
b. 12 feet.
c. 20 feet.
d. 1 foot.
a. Horizontal plastic water pipes should be supported at least every four feet. Some areas call for supports even closer together.
28
A water service line with a pressure of 110 psi will require a
a. reduced-pressure backflow device.
b. expansion tank.
c. Extra-heavy pipe and fittings.
d. pressure regulator.
d. If the water surface line pressure is 110 psi, a pressure regulator would typically be required.
29
A 40-50-year-old, galvanized-steel water supply system
a. is the best system available.
b. should have the water tested for lead.
c. will probably show reduced water volume and pressure.
d. is not compatible with PVC drain lines.
c. A 40-50-year-old galvanized-steel water supply system will probably show reduced water volume and pressure.
30
Galvanized-steel pipe typically fails first at
a. threaded connections.
b. elbows.
c. the top sides of long horizontal runs.
d. bends in the pipe.
a. Galvanized-steel pipe typically fails first at the threaded connections, which are thinner.
31
Which of the following is NOT a backflow prevention device?
a. Vacuum breaker
b. Backflow preventer
c. Isolating valve
d. Backwater valve
c. An isolating valve is not a backflow prevention device.
32
Which type of plastic piping is typically cream-colored and suitable for use on both the hot and cold water system?
a. PVC
b. CPVC
c. Polybutylene
d. ABS
b. CPVC is typically cream colored and suitable for use on both the hot and cold water system.
33
Which of the following suggests failing galvanized-steel supply piping?
a. Weaker pressure on the hot side than the cold
b. Weaker pressure on the cold side than the hot
c. Vertical risers replaced with copper
d. Green stains on the insides of plumbing fixtures
a. Weaker pressure on the hot side than the cold side suggest failing galvanized-steel supply piping.
34
Any brass supply piping you come across will be
a. 3/4 inch diameter.
b. yellow brass, with many years of service left.
c. prone to failure at the horizontal soldered connections.
d. near the end of its life.
d. Any brass piping that you find on the supply system will probably be near the end of its life.
35
How can you tell the difference between brass piping and galvanized-steel piping?
a. Galvanized steel has threaded connections and brass piping is soldered.
b. Galvanized steel has soldered connections and brass piping is threaded.
c. Brass piping will always be smaller diameter than galvanized steel.
d. Galvanized steel will attract a magnet and brass will not.
d. Galvanized-steel piping will attract a magnet; brass piping will not.
36
Joining copper and galvanized-steel piping together will produce corrosion unless a(n)
a. isolation hanger is used.
b. dielectric connector is used
.c. tempering valve is used.
d. brass coupler is used.
b. Copper and galvanized-steel piping will corrode each other; unless dielectric connector is used.
37
Which of the following devices protects against backflow?
a. Double-check valve assembly
b. Atmospheric vacuum breaker
c. Pressure-type vacuum breaker
d. Pressure regulator
a. Double-check valve assembly
38
Gas-fired water heaters and boilers for space heating both have all of the following components EXCEPT
a. gas piping and a gas burner.
b. a cold water inlet pipe.
c. a temperature/pressure-relief valve set at 210°F and 150 psi.
d. a venting system.
c. Boilers and water heaters that are gas-fired typically have all of these components except a temperature/pressure-relief valve set as 210°F and 150 psi. Boilers typically use a pressure-relief valve set at 30 psi.
39
Gas fired water heaters have
a. an expansion tank.
b. potable water.
c. an operating pressure of 12-15 psi.
d. operating temperatures of 180°F, typically.
b. Gas-fired water heaters see potable water.
40
Gas-fired and oil-fired water heaters have all of the following EXCEPT
a. dip tubes.
b. insulated tanks
.c. sacrificial anodes.
d. lower recovery rates than electric water heaters.
d. Gas-fired and oil-fired water heaters have faster recovery rates than electric water heaters.
41
Which water heater has the fastest recovery rate?
a. Single-element electric heater
b. Double-element electric heater
c. Oil-fired water heater
d. Direct-vent, gas-fired water heater
c. An oil-fired water heater has the fastest recovery rate.
42
Which of the following is NOT a common problem with gas piping?
a. Threaded connections
b. Leaks
c. Rusting
d. No drip leg
a. Threaded connections are not a problem with gas piping, which is usually steel.
43
Gas meters
a. must be located outside.
b. are never undersized.
c. never leak.
d. may ice up.
d. Gas meters may ice up.
44
Which of the following natural gas piping arrangements is NOT permitted in any jurisdiction?
a. Plastic pipe used underground outdoors
b. Plastic pipe used indoors
c. Coated steel piping used outdoors underground
d. Black steel piping used indoors
b. Plastic pipe cannot be used indoors.
45
All of the following are common problems found on gas piping EXCEPT
a. leaks.
b. excess pressure.
c. rusting.
d. improper connections.
b. Excess pressure is not a common problem on gas piping.
46
Which of the following is NOT TRUE about indoor oil tanks?
a. The tank should be 10 feet away from any burner.
b. Tanks may rust over time.
c. Rusting of tanks is common at the bottom weld if there is water in the tank.
d. Outside tanks were never buried.
d. Oil tanks outside were often buried.
47
Common problems with oil fill and vent pipes DO NOT include
a. leaks.
b. oversizing.
c. missing caps.
d. abandonment.
b. It isn't common for, nor would it be a problem if, oil fill and vent pipes were oversized.
48
Oil supply lines that carry the oil from the tank to the burner are typically
a. copper.
b. exposed along the floor or wall surface.
c. 1-inch diameter.
d. never more than 15 feet long.
a. Oil supply lines are typically copper, although they can be steel or brass as well.
49
All of the following are common oil supply line problems EXCEPT
a. leaks.
b. corrosion or mechanical damage.
c. undersizing.
d. excess elevation changes.
d. Excessive elevation change is not a common oil supply line problem. A fuel filter is needed in this arrangement.
50
Oil flows from an above-ground exterior tank, through a 2-inch pipe into the basement. Here it passes a shutoff valve and a union. The 3/8-inch copper line starts here and runs to the burner. The part missing here is a
a. fuel filter.
b. fuel pressure reducer.
c. pump to increase fuel pressure in the exterior line.
d. manifold to allow oil to be drawn off for other burners.
a. A fuel filter is needed here.
51
Which is NOT a common oil filter problem?
a. Leaking filter
b. Dirt
c. Missing
d. Oversizing
d. It is not common for an oil filter to be oversized.
52
Which of the following is NOT a cause of inadequate combustion air?
a. The water heater is in a small enclosure.
b. The house is extremely airtight.
c. There are several other pieces of equipment exhausting air from the house.
d. An air vent to the outdoors from the water heater enclosure.
d. A vent to the outdoors from a water heater enclosure does not cause inadequate combustion air. It might solve a combustion air problem.
53
All of the following are common venting problems on gas and oil water heaters EXCEPT
a. rust.
b. poor slope.
c. a vent connector that is too long.
d. vent connector manifolds with vent connector from furnace.
d. A vent connector from a water heater which manifolds with a furnace vent connector is a common arrangement and is not necessarily a problem.
54
The required clearance from combustibles for a single-wall vent connector on a gas water heater is
a. one inch.
b. two inches.
c. six inches.
d. nine inches.
c. A six-inch clearance is required from a single-wall vent connector from a gas water heater to combustible materials.
55
Vent connectors from conventional gas water heaters are commonly
a. corrugated.
b. aluminum.
c. B-vents.
d. L-vents .
b. Vent connectors from conventional gas water heater are commonly aluminum.
56
The function of a draft hood on a gas fired water heater is to
a. add air to the venting system to maintain chimney draft.
b. provide combustion air.
c. prevent the burner from competing with the furnace for combustion air.
d. prevent flame rollout at the burner.
a. Draft hoods add air to the venting system in order to maintain appropriate chimney draft.
57
Which of the following is not a common problem with oil fill and vent pipes on an oil storage tank?
a. Leaks
b. Abandoned tank with pipes not sealed
c. Damage or corrosion
d. A gooseneck on the vent pipe
d. A gooseneck on a vent pipe is not a problem on an oil fill and vent system
58
All of the following are common problems with oil burners EXCEPT
a. draft hood obstruction.
b. inoperativeness.
c. incomplete combustion.
d. excess proximity to combustibles.
a. Oil burners do not have draft hoods.
59
Refractories on oil burners
a. are typically located at the top of a water heater.
b. can be completely inspected during a home inspection.
c. may be masonry or ceramic fiber.
d. are located above the burner.
c. Refractories on oil burners may be masonry or ceramic fiber.
60
If the vent length on a gas-fired water heater is too long, then
a. the cost of the system is too high.
b. combustible clearances have to be increased.
c. there is a possibility of poor drafting and spillage of combustion products.
d. it may require supports at more frequent intervals.
c. If the vent length is too long, there is the possibility of poor drafting an spillage of combustion products on gas-fired or oil-fired water heaters.
61
Vent connectors on oil-fired water heaters
a. should extend 2 inches into the flue of a masonry chimney.
b. should enter a masonry chimney below a vent for a furnace or boiler.
c. should reduce in size to accelerate the exhaust products before it joins a masonrychimney.
d. are prone to corrosion along the bottom.
d. Vent connectors on oil-fired water heaters are prone to corrosion along the bottom.
62
Which of the following statements about electric water heaters is NOT TRUE?
a. They usually have a larger storage capacity than gas or oil tanks.
b. They have a slow recovery rate.
c. They sometimes have an energy cut out and pressure-relief valve.
d. They do not require a sacrificial anode.
d. Electric water heaters do require a sacrificial anode.
63
Which of the following statements about leaking water heaters is NOT TRUE?
a. Water heaters often leak at the bottom first.
b. The leaks are never a result of rusting.
c. The life expectancy of a water heater is less than that of a boiler.
d. The temperature/pressure-relief valve or drain valve may be leaking.
b. Leaks are often a result of rusting.
64
Gas-fired water heaters
a. can typically be installed on combustible floors, including carpeting.
b. usually require 36 inches of combustible clearance around and above the water heaters.
c. do not have any insulation in the tank walls.
d. should not be installed in bedrooms or bedroom closets.
d. Gas-fired water heaters should not be installed in bedrooms or bedroom closets.
65
Which of the following statements about temperature/pressure-relief valves is NOT TRUE?
a. Temperature/pressure-relief valves protect against steam explosions.
b. Temperature/pressure-relief valves shut off the water heater if the temperature exceeds210°F.
c. Temperature/pressure-relief valves should be connected to a discharge tube.
d. The Btu rating of the temperature/pressure relief valve should be at least as big as the water heater Btu rating.
b. Temperature and pressure-relief valves do not shut off the water heater. They simply allow water to discharge through the valve and discharge tube.
66
Which of the following statements about water heater discharge tubes for temperature/pressure relief valves is NOT TRUE?
a. The tubes cannot be plastic.
b. The tubes cannot have any shutoff valves.
c. The tubes have to extend 6--12 inches above the floor or, outdoors, 6-24 inches above grade.
d. The tube cannot have threads, fittings or caps on the end.
a. Discharge tubes on water heaters can be plastic.
67
Which of the following is NOT a problem with water heaters?
a. There is no isolating valve on the cold water inlet.
b. The tank is leaking.
c. There is no isolating valve on the hot water outlet.
d. The hot and cold water piping are reversed.
c. An isolating valve on the hot water outlet is not required or typically provided.
68
Circulating hot water systems
a. eliminate the wait for hot water after long, idle periods.
b. require no additional piping.
c. have a pump that comes on every time water flows through the hot water system.
d. should never have a check valve in the system, because that may obstruct the flow.
a. Circulating hot water systems eliminate the wait for hot water at faucets throughout the house after long idle periods.
69
Which of the following is a good vent-termination location for a fan-assisted, gas-fired water heater?
a. Five feet from a mechanical air supply inlet
b. Two feet from a gas meter regulator
c. Five feet from a door or window
d. Two feet from a combustion air inlet for the furnace
c. It's all right for a vent from a fan assisted gas water heater to discharge within five feet for a door or window.
70
Which of the following statements is FALSE with respect to high-efficiency, gas-fired water heaters?
a. The tanks are better insulated than conventional water heaters.
b. The seasonal efficiency is 70-80 percent.
c. The exhaust gas temperatures are 100°F to 150°F.
d. They are condensing systems.
b. The seasonal efficiency of a high-efficiency gas water heater is more than 70-80 percent.
71
Which of the following statements about combination domestic hot water and space heating systems is FALSE?
a. They cannot be used with a radiant piping, heat-distribution system.
b. Potable water is passed through a coil in an air handler with a duct system.
c. Electric water heaters are not typically used in this application.
d. The pump may operate even during nonheating seasons to prevent stagnant water accumulations.
a. Combination hot water and space heating systems can have radiant piping-distribution systems.
72
A tempering valve may be needed on a combination domestic hot water and space heating system. The tempering valve
a. mixes cool water with the hot water before sending the water to a fan coil.
b. raises the temperature of the domestic hot water delivered to the house.
c. reduces the temperature of the water to the domestic hot water side.
d. protects people from scalding when bleeding radiators or radiant piping systems.
c. The tempering valve on a hot water system reduces the temperature of the water to the domestic hot water side.
73
Which of the following is a common problem with combination heating systems?
a. Inadequate combustion air
b. Inadequate heat and/or hot water
c. Excess pressure at faucets
d. Increased fuel consumption and cost
b. Inadequate heat and/or hot water is a common problem with combination heating systems.
74
Which of the following statements is true of tankless coils?
a. Tankless coils have a small, high-output burner.
b. The domestic boiler is left idle during the summer months.
c. No domestic water heater and tank are necessary.
d. These coils take up considerable space in a home.
c. No domestic water heater and tank are necessary if a tankless coil is used to provide domestic hot water.
75
Which of the following is NOT a drawback to tankless coils?
a. A tempering valve is usually necessary.
b. Leaking coils can damage the house boiler.
c. These coils are prone to clogging with scale and rust.
d. A separate pump is needed for the coil.
d. A separate pump is not needed with tankless coils.
76
A side-arm heater
a. is a variation on a tankless coil.
b. is added to the side of a domestic water heater.
c. is typically located at each fixture requiring hot water.
d. has a high-efficiency oil burner.
a. A side-arm heater is a variation on a tankless coil.
77
Which of the following is NOT an advantage of combination systems?
a. There is only one combustion appliance, rather than two.
b. It can be a high-efficiency system.
c. They make use of the domestic hot water in the tank, which is kept at the ready anyway.
d. These systems are typically oversized for both heating and domestic hot water, so there is a lot of capacity.
d. Combination systems are usually not over sized for heating and/or hot water usage.
78
Venting arrangements on high-efficiency domestic water heaters typically include all of the following EXCEPT
a. CPVC or PVC vent piping.
b. sidewall venting arrangements.
c. exhaust gas temperatures of 350°F-400°F.
d. condensate handling systems.
c. High-efficiency domestic water heaters have exhaust gas temperatures well below 350°-400° Fahrenheit.
79
A pressure switch on a power vented water heater
a. operates the blower if air pressure is too low.
b. provides adequate combustion air
.c. senses excess water pressure in the system.
d. verifies that the blower has started.
d. A pressure switch on a power-vented water heater verifies that the blower has started.
80
Common problems with temperature/pressure relief valves on water heaters include all of the following EXCEPT
a. a missing.
b. a missing discharge tube.
c. a discharge tube dripping or leaking.
d. a discharge tube made of copper.
d. Common problems with temperature pressure-relief valves do not include copper discharge tubes. These are acceptable.
81
Common problems for pumps with hot water circulating systems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. inoperativeness.·
b. leakage.
c. excess noise or vibration.
d. control by an aquastat.
d. It is acceptable for a hot water circulating system to be controlled by an aquastat.
82
Where two water heaters are installed in a single house
a. they must always be installed in the same area.
b. they are typically installed in series.
c. the upstream unit is typically smaller than the downstream unit.
d. parallel systems should have similar pipe lengths to each water heater.
d. Where two water heaters are installed in a single home, parallel systems should have similar pipe lengths for each water heater.
83
An energy cutoff in a water heater replaces
a. the thermostat.
b. the temperature function of the TPR valve.
c. the barometric damper.
d. the thermocouple or flame sensor.
b. The energy cut-off in a water heater replaces the temperature function of the temperature/pressure-relief valve.
84
Each temperature/pressure-relief valve shall have a
a. discharge tube no longer than 30 inches.
b. trapped discharge tube.
c. Full-size discharge tube extended to a safe location.
d. reducing fitting and threaded end on the discharge tube.
c. Each temperature/pressure-relief valve must have a full-size discharge tube extended to a safe location.
85
All gas water heaters require
a. a venting system for exhaust product.
b. enclosed water supply pipes.
c. temperature/pressure-relief valves.
d. 12 inches of elevation off of the floor in a garage.
a. All gas-fired water heaters require a venting system for exhaust products.
86
All gas meters should be preceded by a
a. bypass connection.
b. shutoff valve.
c. drip leg.
d. union connection.
b. All gas meters should be preceded by a shut-off valve.
87
Conventional gas-fired water heaters may be installed in
a. bedrooms.
b. bathrooms.
c. kitchens.
d. All of the above
c. Conventional gas-fired water heaters may be installed in a kitchen.
88
Which water heater may have an energy cutout?
a. Electric
b. Gas
c. Oil
d. Propane
a. Many electric water heaters have an energy cutout.
89
Which water heater has the slowest recovery rate?
a. Electric
b. Gas
c. Oil
d. A heater installed beside a parallel heater
a. Electric water heaters have the slowest recovery rate.
90
Which item is NOT essential for the safe operation of a conventional gas-fired water heater?
a. Thermocouple
b. TPR valve
c. Thermostat
d. Pressure limit switch
d. Conventional gas-fired water heaters do not require a pressure limit switch. They have a temperature/pressure-relief valve.
91
A building drain is
a. the lowest pipe in or under a home that carries sewage to the building sewer.
b. the underground pipe that carries sewage from the building out to the public sewer.
c. the underground pipe that carries sewage from the building to an on-site sewage disposal system.
d. the pipes that run along the street and receive the waste from several houses.
a. A building drain is the lowest pipe in, or under, a home that carries sewage to the building sewer.
92
What does D, W, V stand for?
(a) Updrain piping, waste piping, vent piping.
(b) Piping, waste piping, vent piping.
(c) Drain piping, waste piping, vent piping.
(d) Drain piping, triple waste piping, vent piping.
(c) Drain piping, waste piping, vent piping.
93
Soil pipes
a. carry liquid and solid waste from a toilet.
b. carry liquid wastes only in a horizontal plane.
c. carry air only on horizontal runs.
d. carry solid and liquid waste on vertical runs only.
a. Soil pipes carry liquid and solid waste from a toilet.
94
Home inspectors should not turn on plumbing systems that have been turned off for all EXCEPT which one of the following reasons?
a. There may be a leak in the piping.
b. It is the client's responsibility.
c. There may be a leak at the fixture.
d. The system may have been winterized and you will wash antifreeze out of the system.
b. Answers a, c, and d are all reasons why a home inspector should not turn on plumbing systems that have been turned off.
95
Horizontal drain pipes should have a slope of roughly
a. 1/4-inch-per-foot.
b. 1/2-inch-per-foot.
c. 3/4-inch-per-foot.
d. 1-inch-per-foot.
a. Horizontal drain pipes should have a slope of roughly 1/4-inch-per-foot.
96
Bell and spigot is a
a. male/female connection method for cast-iron pipe.
b. sweated lead joint.
c. brazed copper joint.
d. tapered threaded joint.
a. Bell and spigot is a male/female connection method for cast-iron pipe.
97
Common drainage piping problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. leaks.
b. rust.
c. splits, damage, and crimping.
d. oversizing.
d. Oversizing is not a common problem with drainage piping.
98
All of the following are common drainage piping problems EXCEPT
a. missing or inaccessible cleanouts.
b. clay tile piping that is buried in the soil.
c. combustible piping that is used in multifamily buildings
d. nonstandard piping materials.
b. Clay-tile drainage piping can be buried in the ground.
99
Leaks in drain pipes are commonly caused by all of the following EXCEPT
a. poor joint connections.
b. damaged piping or traps.
c. missing air gaps.
d. clogging.
c. Missing air gps do not cause leaks in drain pipes.
100
Clogging of drainage piping can be caused by any of the following EXCEPT
a. too little slope.
b. slopes of 45° or more off horizontal.
c. foreign materials in the piping.
d. pipe connections that project into the path of the waste.
b. Slopes of 45° or more do not cause drainage clogging piping.
101
All of the following are possible cross connection situations EXCEPT
a. extendable faucets on kitchen sinks.
b. water supply connections to heating boilers.
c. trap primers.
d. floor drains with no trap primers.
d. Floor drains with no trap primers are not cross connection situations.
102
Cross connections may exist at each of the following EXCEPT
a. supply faucets that are below the flood rims of fixtures.
b. drain connections from dishwashers.
c. outside hose bibs with no hoses attached.
d. lawn sprinkler systems.
c. A cross connection will not exist at outside hose bibs with no attached hoses.
103
The causes of poor slope on drainage piping include all of the following EXCEPT
a. poor installation.
b. building settlement or heaving.
c. hanger problems.
d. double trapping.
d. Double trapping is not a cause of poor slope on drainage piping.
104
Defective ABS piping
a. occurred in installations after 1990.
b. occurred throughout North America.
c. resulted in cracking around the circumference of the pipe joints.
d. is an issue with a 1 1/4-inch to 2-inch diameter only.
c. Defective ABS piping resulted in cracking around the circumference of the pipe joints.
105
Dishwashers in some areas
a. require an air gap fitting.
b. must drain directly into a stack.
c. cannot discharge into a tailpiece of a sink.
d. must discharge into a trap and upstream of the vent.
a. Dishwashers in some areas require an air gap fitting.
106
Drain pipes from clothes washers should
a. have a direct connection to a plumbing stack.
b. go into a standpipe.
c. not have a trap in the standpipe for fear of collecting debris and clogging.
d. have standpipes that discharge into the trap arm of a laundry tub.
b. Drain pipes from clothes washers should go into a standpipe.
107
One of the weaknesses of copper drain, waste, and vent pipe is that
a. it corrodes easily.
b. it's combustible.
c. it's susceptible to acid.
d. it's hard to work with.
c. Copper drain, waste, and vent piping is susceptible to acid.
108
A common use for brass as a waste material is
a. vent piping.
b. wet venting.
c. fittings.
d. waste piping.
c. A common use for brass as a waste material is in fittings.
109
Horizontal cast-iron piping is prone to
a. splits on the top.
b. noise transmission.
c. sags, when supported at three foot intervals.
d. rusting, after 15 years.
a. Horizontal cast-iron piping is prone to splits on the top.
110
Which of the following drain pipes is typically used below grade?
a. Galvanized steel
b. Cast iron
c. Clay
d. Copper
c. Clay drain pipes are typically used below grade.
111
A trap seal is the
a. fastener that joins the trap to the tailpiece.
b. fitting that joins the trap to the trap arm.
c. another name for the drain stopper.
d. vertical distance from the trap dip to the weir.
e. connection from the trap to the vent.
d. A trap seal is the vertical distance from the trap dip to the weir.
112
The tail piece is the
a. pipe that joins the fixture to the trap.
b. pipe that runs from the trap to the vent.
c. downstream-half of the trap.
d. upstream-half of the trap.
e. inside of the lowest part of the trap.
a. The tail piece is the pipe that joins the fixture to the trap.
113
The trap arm is the
a. cleanout at the bottom of the trap.
b. pipe that runs from the trap to the vent.
c. fixture outlet pipe.
d. distance from the trap dip to the trap weir.
b. The trap arm is the pipe that runs from the trap to the vent.
114
Which of the following is NOT a factor in helping to keep traps from clogging?
a. Their special shape
b. Their self-scouring characteristic
c. The trap size
d. The avoidance of S-traps
d. S-traps are a factor in siphoning, not clogging.
115
Double trapping is a problem because the
a. water velocity is too great.
b. water velocity at the second trap is too low.
c. water velocity at the first trap is too high
d. second trap is prone to siphoning.
e. you need cleanouts on both traps
b. Double trapping is a problem because the water velocity at the second trap is too low.
116
All of the following may cause traps to lose their seal EXCEPT
a. dumping mineral oil down a drain.
b. indirect siphonage.
c. backpressure.
d. evaporation.
a. Answers b, c, and d all may cause traps to lose their seal.
117
Trap problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. slip joints.
b. missing.
c. leakage.
d. double trapping.
a. Slip joints are not a common trap problem.
118
All of the following indicate leaking traps EXCEPT
a. slow-draining fixtures.
b. staining or streaking on the trap.
c. rusting of cleanout plugs.
d. water damage on the floor or cabinets below the trap.
a. Slow-draining fixtures are not an indication of leaking traps.
119
What are the implications of a tail piece for a fixture that is too long?
a. Clogging of the trap
b. Siphoning of the trap
c. Freeze-up of the trap
d. Ineffective venting
b. A tail piece that is too long may siphon the trap.
120
A trap may clog if
a. the trap is oversized or undersized.
b. the trap is assembled with slip joints.
c. the trap arm length is too long.
d. the vent is oversized.
a. A trap may clog if the trap is oversized or undersized.
121
What type of trap is allowed by most plumbing codes?
a. P-trap
b. S-trap
c. Double trap
d. Bell trap
a. P-traps are allowed by all plumbing codes.
122
A plumbing trap
a. provides a flow of air to and from the drainage system.
b. prevents foreign objects from clogging the drainage system.
c. provides a liquid seal that prevents the passage of air/gas.
d. controls the discharge of water or sewage into the sanitary system.
c. A plumbing trap provides a liquid seal that will prevent the passage of air/gas.
123
Floor drain problem include all of the following EXCEPT ?
a. no backwater valve.
b. missing.
c. no trap.
d. backing up.
a. The absence of a backwater valve is not a floor drain problem
124
All of the following are functions of plumbing vent systems EXCEPT that vents
a. allow air to be pushed out of the waste pipes ahead of slugs.
b. prevent siphoning of traps.
c. provide a path for odors to escape from the house.
d. provide a fresh-air inlet directly to the living space.
d. Providing a fresh-air inlet directly to the living space is not a function of a plumbing vent system.
125
Crown-vented traps are
a. recommended on the upper floors of houses.
b. not permitted in most areas.
c. always more than two pipe diameters from the trap.
d. used on drum traps.
b. Crown-vented traps are not permitted in most areas.
126
Why are island sinks difficult to vent?
a. You don't want a vent pipe running up through the center of the kitchen.
b. It is difficult to vent double sinks.
c. Double sinks lead to double trapping and ineffective vents.
d. There is no room on the counter for an air gap fitting.
a. Island sinks are difficult to vent because people don't want a vent pipe running up through the center of the kitchen.
127
What is an automatic air vent?
(a) An air vent is a spring-loaded device which allow air to be drawn in when the waste piping is under negative pressure, but will close when the waste pipe is under positive pressure so water cannot leak out.
(b) An automatic air vent that is a spring-loaded device which does not allow air to be drawn in when the waste piping is under negative pressure, but will close when the waste pipe is under positive pressure so water cannot leak out.
(c) An automatic air vent is a spring-loaded device which allow air to be drawn in when the waste piping is under negative pressure, but will close when the waste pipe is under positive pressure so water cannot leak out.
(d) An automatic air vent is a spring-loaded device which allow air to be drawn in when the waste piping is under positive pressure, but will close when the waste pipe is under negative pressure so water cannot leak o
(c) An automatic air vent is a spring-loaded device which allow air to be drawn in when the waste piping is under negative pressure, but will close when the waste pipe is under positive pressure so water cannot leak out.
128
What is a wet vent?
a. A hose attached to a sink drain
b. When the cap is missing from the water heater vent flue
c. A vent that also serves as a drain
d. When a clothes dryer is located near a laundry sink
c. A wet vent is a vent that also serves as a drain.
129
What is a wet vent?
(a) A wet vent occurs when the drain for two fixture is serving as the vent for another.
(b) A wet vent occurs when the drain for one fixture is serving as the drain for another.
(c) A wet vent occurs when the drain for one fixture is serving as the vent for another.
(d) A wet vent occurs when the vent for one fixture is serving as the vent for another.
(c) A wet vent occurs when the drain for one fixture is serving as the vent for another.
130
What might cause a gurgling sound when draining water out of a sink?
a. Sewer blockage
b. No vent pipe
c. Excessive water pressure
d. Undersized drain piping
b. A missing vent pipe may cause a gurgling sound when draining water out of a sink.
131
What is the minimum recommended height of a plumbing vent stack above the roof?
a. 30 inches
b. 24 inches
c. 6 inches
d. 1 inch
e. 12 inches
c. The minimum recommended height of a plumbing vent stack above the roof is 6 inches.
132
How close can a vent be to a trap?
a. 1 pipe-diameter after the trap
b. 2 pipe-diameters after the trap
c. 6 pipe-diameters after the trap
d. 4 feet from the trap
b. A vent can be as close as two pipe-diameters to the trap.
133
All of the following are reasons that a sewage pump may not operate EXCEPT
a. a defective switch.
b. a leak in the outlet line.
c. a seized pump or burned-out motor.
d. an undersized vent.
d. An undersized vent is not a reason that a sewage pump may not operate.
134
Sewage sumps are required for toilets located
a. below the elevation of the curb at the street.
b. below the municipal sewer.
c. in the basement.
d. in a home with a septic system.
b. Sewage sumps are required for toilets located below the municipal sewer.
135
Sewage ejector pumps DO NOT need
a. an inlet pipe.
b. a trap.
c. a discharge pipe.
d. a 120-volt electrical supply.
b. Sewage ejector pumps do not need a trap.
136
Sump pumps
a. typically operate on 240-volt electrical power.
b. may be pedestal-type or submersible.
c. should not have a check valve in the discharge pipe.
d. should have a hermetically sealed sump lid.
b. Sump pumps may be pedestal-type or submersible.
137
All of the following are common sump pump problems EXCEPT
a. inoperativeness.
b. short cycling.
c. running continuously.
d. a discharge point that is above grade level.
d. A discharge point above grade is an acceptable configuration for a sump pump, not a problem.
138
Laundry tub pumps
a. should be upstream of the laundry tub trap.
b. should be downstream of the laundry tub trap.
c. should be mounted above the laundry tub.
d. must be automatically activated.
b. Laundry tub pumps should be downstream of the laundry tub trap.
139
Good plumbing fixtures have all of the following features EXCEPT
a. smoothness.
b. porousness.
c. durability.
d. ease of cleaning.
b. Good plumbing fixtures should be nonporous, not porous.
140
Which of the following fixtures does NOT require a trap?
a. Toilets
b. Basins
c. Bathtubs
d. Bidets
a. Toilets do not require a trap.
141
Lavatories are:
a. Toilets
b. bathtubs
c. shower stalls
d. basins
e. bidets
a. toilets
142
Floors and walls around toilets, bathtubs, and showers should NOT be
a. smooth surfaced.
b. pervious.
c. marble.
d. tile.
b. Floors and walls around toilets, bathtubs, and showers should not be pervious.
143
The fixture in the house that is going to have the weakest flow and drainage is/are
a. the lowest fixture in the house.
b. the smallest fixture in the house.
c. toilets, because they have only cold water supply.
d. the highest fixture in the house.
d. The highest fixture in the house is going to have the weakest flow and drainage.
144
Causes of slow drains include all of the following EXCEPT
a. missing trap.
b. a clogged fixture strainer.
c. a partly clogged drain system.
d. an undersized drain system.
a. Absence of a trap is not a cause of a slow drain.
145
In new construction, you will not normally find basins and sinks made out of
a. stainless steel.
b. cast iron.
c. synthetic marble.
d. concrete.
d. In new construction you will not normally find basins and sinks made out of concrete.
146
Faucets or spouts must be above the ______ of the sink or basin.
a. vent stack
b. flood rim
c. supply valve
d. vacuum breaker
b. Faucets or spouts must be above the flood rim of the sink or basin.
147
Rust on fixtures is typically caused by all of the following EXCEPT
a. failure at welded overflow connections.
b. corrosive chemicals.
c. chipped enamel.
d. condensate from air conditioners draining into fixtures.
d. Condensate from air conditioners does not commonly cause rust.
148
Overflows should NOT be found on
a. bathtubs.
b. basins.
c. kitchen sinks.
d. whirlpool baths.
c. Overflows should not be found on kitchen sinks.
149
Washerless faucets are more prone to water hammer problems than compression faucets because
a. water can be turned off much more quickly.
b. washers wear enough to be slightly leaky.
c. packing leakage is common on compression faucets.
d. compression faucets are typically on older piping systems, which are more accommodating and less likely to suffer water hammer.
a. Washerless faucets are more prone to water hammer problems than compression faucets because water can be turned off more quickly.
150
Water hammer is typically prevented by
a. pressure-balancing faucets.
b. thermostat mixers.
c. single lever faucets.
d. dead-end risers.
d. Water hammer is typically prevented by dead-end risers.
151
Pressure balancing valves
a. protect against scalding at showers.
b. prevent cross connections.
c. are backflow preventers.
d. are used with pressure regulators.
a. Pressure-balancing valves protect against scalding at showers.
152
Common faucet problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. leaks.
b. looseness.
c. cross connections.
d. a lack of isolating valves.
e. stiff
d.
Answers a, b, c, e are common faucet problems.
153
The most common cause of poor pressure and flow at a single fixture is
a. poor city water pressure.
b. poor performance of a well pump.
c. a clogged aerator.
d. older galvanized-steel supply piping in the house.
e. a partially closed main shutoff valve
c. A clogged aerator is the common cause of poor pressure and flow at a single fixture.
154
Common toilet problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. low water pressure.
b. looseness.
c. an inoperative flush mechanism.
d. obstructions.
a. Low water pressure is not a common toilet problem.
155
All of the following are common toilet problems EXCEPT
a. lazy flushing.
b. floor damage around the toilet.
c. excess pressure at the tank.
d. running continuously.
c. Excess pressure at the tank is not a common toilet problem.
156
A toilet is NOT likely to leak at the
a. wax gasket connection to the floor.
b. gasket between the tank and bowl.
c. seat bolt holes.
d. rubber gasket connection to the floor.
c. A toilet is not likely to leak at the seat bolt holes.
157
Bidets are all of the following EXCEPT
a. self-trapping.
b. connected to both hot and cold water supplies.
c. provided with a vacuum breaker.
d. typically provided with a spray and rim wash and a diverter.
a. Bidets are not self-trapping.
158
Common bidet problems DO NOT include
a. leaks.
b. missing vacuum breakers.
c. inoperative spray/rim wash diverters.
d. damaged seats or lids.
d. Bidets do not have seats or lids.
159
Leaks at bidets may be at any of the following locations EXCEPT
a. supply piping connections.
b. drain piping connections.
c. tank lids.
d. vacuum breakers.
c. Bidets do not have tank lids.
160
A tile lip for a bathtub
a. is part of the drain connection.
b. provides a mounting plate for fixtures.
c. provides a support point for the tub to the structure.
d. supports the tub skirt.
c. A tile lip for a bathtub provides a support point for the tub to the structure.
161
Common bathtub problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. leaks.
b. rust.
c. cross connections.
d. missing vacuum breakers.
d. Bathtubs do not have vacuum breakers.
162
Testing inaccessible bathtub overflows is NOT recommended because
a. it takes too long to fill the tub to the overflow.
b. these systems are used regularly and problems would show up below.
c. overflows often leak when tested.
d. overflows are integral with drain stoppers and leaks will flow into the tailpiece of the fixture.
c. We do not recommend testing inaccessible bathtub overflows because most overflows leak when they are used.
163
Enclosures around bathtubs and shower stalls are typically all of the following EXCEPT
a. ceramic tile.
b. acrylic.
c. smooth, easy to clean, and nonporous.
d. unlikely to allow leakage.
d. Enclosures around tubs and shower stalls are extremely vulnerable to leakage.
164
Appropriate backup materials for a ceramic tile shower stall include all of the following EXCEPT
a. drywall.
b. moisture resistant drywall.
c. lightweight concrete panels.
d. plywood.
d. The backup material for a ceramic tile shower stall should not be plywood.
165
The most common leakage point in a ceramic shower stall is at the
a. escutcheon plate.
b. base.
c. shower nozzle.
d. soap dish.
b. The most common leakage point in a ceramic shower stall is at the base.
166
Vulnerable spots in shower and bathtub enclosures include all of the following EXCEPT
a. faucet penetrations.
b. the top of the tile where it joins the conventional wall finish.
c. soap dishes.
d. windows.
b. Answers a, c, and dare all vulnerable spots in a shower and bathtub enclosure.
167
Leaks through tub and shower enclosures may be caused by all of these EXCEPT
a. poor grout work.
b. poor caulking.
c. building settlement.
d. porous ceramic tile.
d. Answers a, b, and c may all cause leaks through tub and shower enclosures.
168
Electrical light switches in bathrooms should be
a. moved outside the bathroom.
b. at least three feet away from shower stalls and bathtubs.
c. as close to the basin as possible.
d. vapor proof.
b. Electrical light switches and receptacles in bathrooms should be at least three feet away from shower stalls and bathtubs.
169
The lowest quality shower stall base on this list is
a. one-piece fiberglass.
b. three-piece fiberglass.
c. mortar bed ceramic.
d. metal.
d. The lowest quality shower stall bases are metal.
170
Mortar bed shower stalls
a. should have no slope.
b. require a drain with holes in the side.
c. require liners turned up the wall 1/2 inch.
d. require plaster of Paris under the tile.
b. Mortar bed shower stalls require a drain with holes in the side.
171
A toe tester is
a. a hose bib outdoors.
b. a bathtub fill spout.
c. a faucet spout near the bottom of the shower stall.
d. a bathtub with a small side recess.
c. A toe tester is a faucet spout near the bottom of the shower stall.
172
Shower stalls should typically be at least
a. 20 x 40 inches.
b. 24 x 36 inches.
c. 30 x 30 inches.
d. 30 x 36 inches.
c. Shower stalls should typically be at least 30 x 30 inches.
173
All of the following statements are true about whirlpool baths EXCEPT that they
a. are filled and drained with each use.
b. have a dedicated hot water heating system.
c. are used for cleaning people.
d. have a pump.
b. Whirlpool baths do not have a dedicated hot water heating system.
174
Whirlpool baths are also called
a. spas.
b. hot tubs.
c. whirlpool spas.
d. hydro-massage bathtubs.
d. Whirlpool baths are also called hydro-massage bathtubs.
175
All of the following statements about whirlpool baths are true EXCEPT that
a. there should be an access cover to service and replace the pump.
b. the pump should have a dedicated 120-volt circuit.
c. the pump should have a ground fault circuit interrupter.
d. the pump should be variable speed.
d. Not all whirlpool baths have variable-speed pumps.
176
All of the following statements are true about whirlpool baths EXCEPT that
a. whirlpool baths may hold more water than a conventional bathtub.
b. whirlpool baths may exert a significant load on the floor system.
c. there are health concerns surrounding whirlpool baths related to stagnant water in the circulation piping system.
d. whirlpool baths are designed to have the pump operated with no water in the tub.
d. Whirlpool baths are designed to have the pump operated only with water in the tub.
177
Common whirlpool problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. an inoperative pump.
b. dirty water coming from the jets.
c. a missing suction cover.
d. if there are pneumatic switches directly on the tub.
d. Answers a, b, and care all common whirlpool problems.
178
What is the most difficult problem to determine in a bathroom?
a. Low water pressure
b. The condition of the shower pan under base
c. Water hammer
d. Continuously running toilets
b. The most difficult problem to determine in a bathroom is the condition of the shower pan.
179
Which of the following is least likely to have a cross connection?
a. Outside hose bib
b. Shower stall
c. Water softener connection
d. Extendable faucet at the kitchen sink
e. Bidet
b. A shower stall is least likely to have a cross connection.
180
Which of the following is the inspector NOT required to observe during the plumbing inspection?
a. The exhaust vent from the gas water heater
b. Functional drainage at the bathtubs
c. The on-site water supply quantity
d. Cross connections
c. The inspector is not required to observe the on-site water supply quantity.
181
Which of the following is the inspector required to do?
a. Operate temperature/pressure·relief valves on a water heater
b. Observe private waste disposal systems
c. Operate the isolating valve at the toilet
d. Operate the spray feature of the bidet
d. The inspector is required to operate the spray feature of the bidet.
182
Common problems with sinks and basins include all of the following except
A) excess pressure.
B) rust.
C) cross connections.
D) leaks.
A.
Excess pressure is not a common problem with sinks and basins.
183
Galvanized iron or steel drain piping shall NOT be installed
A) in crawl spaces.
B) as stacks (vertical pipes) that serve as waste and vent stacks.
C) in the ground.
D) in an attic.
C.
IN THE GROUND. Galvanized iron or steel drain piping shall not be installed in the ground
184
The most common problem with plumbing fixtures is
A) poor flow.
B) inoperative isolating valves.
C) poor pressure.
D) leaks.
D
The most common problem with plumbing fixtures is leaks.
185
Replacing 50 feet of a 100 foot long pipe with larger diameter pipe will:
Improve the pressure and flow regardless of which 50 feet of pipe is replaced
186
What is the recommended horizontal spacing of supports for copper piping?
6 to 10 feet
187
What condition causes a well pump to run consistantly?
A waterlogged pressure tank
188
At what interval is vertical support required for copper piping?
At least every 10 feet, or every floor
189
Mark two materials used as water supply piping that are considered deficient or defective.
Galvanized steel, Polybutylene (PB)
190
CPVC pipe should be supported horizontally at least every ___ feet and vertically every ____ feet.
3
10
191
A small electric current will run between the copper and galvanized steel in the presence of moisture. This process is called:
electolysis
192
When was copper piping first used?
1930's
193
Galvanized steel pipe should be supported horizontally every __ feet and vertically every ___ feet.
12
15
194
What is the purpose of an expansion tank in a hot water system?
It allows the water to expand as it warms without increasing the pressure in the system
195
Which is the maximum length of a flex gas line to a gas dryer or range?
6 feet
196
What is the component that introduces cold water near the bottom of a gas-fired water heater tank?
The answer is THE DIP TUBE. The dip tube introduces cold water near the bottom of gas-fired and oil-fired water heater tanks
197
Which of the following statements about fan-assisted gas water heaters is not true?
A) They do not need a chimney
B) They are high-efficiency.
C) They typically have an automatic ignition system and a blower controlled by a pressure switch.
D) They use lots of dilution air from the house.
B
Fan-assisted gas water heaters are not high-efficiency systems.
198
Which of the following is not a common material used for water entry piping?
A) Copper
B) Welded steel pipe
C) Polyethylene plastic
D) CPVC plastic
B
Welded steel is not commonly used for water entry piping.
199
Common problems with power-vented or fan-assisted water heaters include all of the following except
A) poor vent termination points.
B) an obstructed blower intake.
C) a clogged condensate collection system.
D) an inoperative blower preventing startup.
C
Power-vented or fan-assisted water heaters do not have clogged condensation collection system problems because they are not condensing units.
200
Oil furnaces are like gas furnaces in all of the following respects except
A) fan/limit switch.
B) blast tube.
C) heat exchanger.
D) ducts, registers, and grilles.
B
The blast tube is a component of oil furnace burners but not gas furnace burners.
201
All of the following are common vent connector issues on oil furnaces except
A) loose fittings at plastic connections.
B) poor connection to chimney.
C) poor support.
D) poor slope
A
Loose fittings at plastic connections are not an issue on oil furnaces. Plastic connections would not be used on vent connectors for oil furnaces.
202
Which of the following is a similarity between furnaces and boilers?
A) High-temperature limit switches
B) Backflow preventers
C) A pressure-relief valve
D) A low-level safety device
A
Both furnaces and boilers have high-temperature limit switches.
203
A common flow control valve problem is
A) poor location.
B) set incorrectly.
C) leaking.
D) obstructed air flow.
C
Like anything connected to a piping system, flow control valves can leak.
204
The device that keeps the boiler water hot on a standby basis is known by all these names except
A) low temperature limit.
B) stack relay.
C) aquastat.
D) primary control.
B
Aquastat, low temperature limit, operating control, and primary control are all terms for the same device.
205
Of the following, where is the best location for a radiator in a living room, in a closed system with a circulator?
A) On the interior wall
B) Since the system has a circulator, it doesn't matter where the radiator is placed
C) On the ceiling
D) On the exterior wall below the window
D
The radiators should be on exterior walls below windows.
206
Which of the following statements is FALSE with respect to electric water heaters?
a. most water heaters have two elements
b.the upper element usually comes on first
c. the upper element has priority
d. the lower element does more work
e. it can be difficult to tell if one of the two elements is burned out
B
207
Which of the following is NOT typically a component of a private water supply system?
a. foot valve
b. pump
c. pressure regulator
d. pressure tank
e. suction line
C
208
To meet common standards, we have to inspect all of the following EXCEPT
a. water supply and distribution system
b. waste disposal systems
c. drain piping
d. vent piping
e. chimneys for water heaters
B
209
To meet common standards, we have to inspect all of the following EXCEPT
a. piping materials
b. water softeners
c. fixtures and faucets
d. water heaters
e. sump pumps
B
210
To meet common standards, we have to inspect all of the following EXCEPT
a. foundation irrigation systems
b. water heating equipment
c. normal operating controls for water heaters
d. automatic safety controls for water heaters
e. chimneys, flues and vents for water heaters
A
211
Low water pressure on the hot water side of a plumbing system may be related to the water heater because
a. the dip tube may be missing
b. the water heater adds considerably to the length of the distribution piping system
c. sludge may obstruct the dip tube
d. the flow of water is slowed because of the volume required to fill the tank
e. the baffles or turbulator slow down the passage of the water
C
212
When we test for functional flow and functional drainage, we check all EXCEPT which of the following?
a. is there adequate pressure and flow at each fixture with more than one fixture flowing?
b. is there adequate drainage capability from each fixture with more than one fixture flowing?
c. are there leaks at the fixtures?
d. does the water heater deliver hot water?
e. is there adequate hot water capacity?
E?
213
What is the maximum distance allowed between a vent and a toilet?
a. 6 feet
b. 8 feet
c. 10 feet
d. 12 feet
e. 14 feet
a?
214
The most common cross connection on a bathtub is
a. a shower faucet that is too low
b. a pressure balancing faucet set
c. a tub fill spout below the tub flood rim
d. a tub drain interconnected with the cold water supply
e. a faulty shower diverter
c
215
The main difference between a laundry tub pump and a sump pump is
a. laundry tub pumps can handle lint
b. laundry tub pumps have a larger capacity
c. sump pumps have a larger capacity
d. laundry tub pumps operate on 120-volt and sump pumps operate on 240-volt electrical power
e. sump pumps are automatic, and laundry tub pumps must be manual
a
216
Sweating toilets
a. are unusual
b. are worse if the toilet runs continuously
c. should not be insulated
d. should be fed with hot water
e. will rust the flush mechanism and flush valve
b
217
Entrances into shower stalls should be a minimum of
a. 16 inches wide
b. 8 inches wide
c. 20 inches wide
d. 22 inches wide
e. 28 inches wide
d
218
Common drainage problems include all of the following EXCEPT
a. clogged
b. poor support
c. cross connections
d. undersized
e. slopes of ¼ to ½ inch per foot
e
219
A trap primer
a. is used on every trap
b. requires an air gap
c. prevents traps from freezing
d. uses mineral oil
e. prevents traps from siphoning
b
