Journeyman Plumber Exam flashcards

The maximum height of the lavatory rim or counter surface from the finished floor to comply with ADA accessibility standards for public restrooms.

• Ensures accessibility for individuals in wheelchairs.
• Applies to public and commercial facilities.
• Clearance underneath is also critical.

Memory trick: Thirty-four is the high mark for the ADA's lavatory arc.

The required method for safely routing the discharge from a temperature and pressure relief valve to prevent damage, injury, and cross-contamination.

• Must terminate to an approved receptor (e.g., floor drain, indirect waste receptor).
• Requires an air gap to prevent backflow into the potable water system.
• Must not be trapped, reduced in size, or have valves installed in it.

Memory trick: Air Gap's the Key to Keep Water Free!

The maximum water consumption allowed for new water closet installations under U.S. federal law (Energy Policy Act of 1992).

• Maximum 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf).
• Many states and local jurisdictions have stricter requirements (e.g., 1.28 gpf).
• Aims to promote water conservation.

Memory trick: Federal flush: 1.6 is the most, for water saved at lowest cost.

The maximum allowable distance between supports for gas piping to ensure stability, prevent sagging, and maintain proper pitch.

• Varies by pipe material (steel, copper, CSST) and diameter.
• Required by fuel gas codes (IFGC, NFPA 54).
• Ensures safety and longevity of the gas distribution system.

Memory trick: Six Feet for Steel, Keep Gas Safe and Real!

The minimum unobstructed space required from the front edge of a water closet bowl to any opposing wall or fixture, as per IPC standards.

• Ensures adequate user comfort and accessibility.
• Prevents obstructions and allows for proper use.
• Mandated by plumbing codes like IPC Section 405.3.1.

Memory trick: Clearance rules are like personal space for the toilet.

The reduction in water pressure due to elevation gain, where water must be lifted against gravity, resulting in approximately 0.433 psi loss per foot of rise.

• Significant factor in multi-story buildings.
• Separate from friction loss.
• Must be accounted for in pipe sizing and pump selection.

Memory trick: Upper floors' low flow, means risers are too slow, or static head makes pressure go low.

An air gap in an indirect waste system is a physical separation between the end of a waste pipe and the flood level rim of a receptor, designed to prevent backflow and cross-contamination.

• Prevents contaminated drain water from siphoning back into fixture or potable water supply.
• Required for fixtures with high contamination risk, like food service equipment.
• Ensures public health and safety by protecting potable water.

Memory trick: Keep clean water separate, like a moat for your castle.

The maximum permissible distance between cleanouts on horizontal drainage piping to ensure adequate access for clearing blockages.

• Required by plumbing codes (IPC, UPC).
• Ensures accessibility for maintenance.
• Specific distances apply to different pipe sizes and locations.

Memory trick: Fifty Feet to Find the Flow!

A backflow prevention device featuring two independently operating check valves, an automatically operating pressure differential relief valve located between the check valves, and two shutoff valves.

• Protects against both backsiphonage and backpressure.
• Suitable for high-hazard applications.
• Must be installed above ground and requires annual testing.

Memory trick: RPBP: Really Protects Both Pressures!

The maximum continuous operating temperature for which PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing is rated, typically 180°F (82°C) at 100 psi for potable hot water applications.

• PEX is resistant to high temperatures.
• Ratings include both temperature and pressure.
• Exceeding ratings can degrade material and cause failure.

Memory trick: PEX hot water: 180, don't let it run too high, you know.

The length of the discharge pipe from a T&P relief valve is not typically restricted by a maximum numerical value in plumbing codes.

• Must be full size of valve outlet.
• Must terminate in a safe, visible location.
• Must be continuously downward sloping.
• No valves or obstructions allowed.

Memory trick: Safety first, length second, flow always.

A device installed in a drainage system to prevent the reversal of flow of sewage or waste water into a building.

• One-way flow device.
• Protects against sewer backup.
• Required in flood-prone areas or where backflow is possible.

Memory trick: Backwater valve, a one-way gate, keeps sewer floods from sealing your fate.

The minimum vertical distance between the lowest opening of a potable water supply pipe and the flood level rim of the fixture or receptor.

• Prevents back-siphonage only.
• Not for continuous pressure applications.
• Specific air gap requirements by code.

Memory trick: Air Gap: Keep water clear, for safety's sake, a gap twice wide, or one inch to make.

The end of a temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve discharge pipe must terminate within a specified distance from the floor or receptor to prevent scalding and ensure proper drainage.

• Typically terminates 6 inches above the floor or into an indirect waste receptor.
• Prevents accidental scalding by discharging hot water downwards.
• Ensures proper function of the relief valve.

Memory trick: Hot water drops, no higher than a ruler's half.

The proper method for routing the discharge from a temperature and pressure relief valve to safely release hot water or steam, typically to an indirect waste receptor with an air gap.

• Prevents backflow into the potable water system.
• Must be visible to indicate valve activation.
• Avoids injury and property damage.

Memory trick: T&P discharge: visible, indirect, air gap, no back-contaminant trap.

Requirement to raise the ignition source of water heaters in garages above the floor to prevent igniting flammable vapors.

• Applies to fuel-fired water heaters.
• Protects against gasoline and other heavy vapors.
• Specific height mandated by code.

Memory trick: Garage water heater: Eighteen inches high, keeps flames from floor, vapors fly by.

A plumbing trap that has lost its water seal, usually due to evaporation or siphoning, allowing sewer gases to enter the building.

• Common in seldom-used fixtures.
• Causes foul odors from sewer gas.
• Can be remedied by running water to refill the trap.

Memory trick: A trap's water seal is like a liquid door, blocking gases from the floor.

The minimum electrical amperage rating required for the dedicated branch circuit providing power to a garbage disposal unit.

• Dedicated circuit required to prevent overloading other circuits.
• Amperage must safely handle starting current and running load.
• Typically 20 Amps for most residential disposals.

Memory trick: Each appliance has its own 'power lane' on the electrical highway.

The length of a pipeline measured along the centerline of the pipe and fittings, representing the total friction loss equivalent length.

• Includes length of straight pipe and equivalent length of fittings.
• Used in drainage and water distribution sizing calculations.
• Critical for proper flow and drainage performance.

Memory trick: Pipe's real length plus fitting's fiction, equals the developed length's total friction.

Minimum distances required around a water closet for user comfort and maintenance, as specified by the International Plumbing Code (IPC).

• 21 inches (533 mm) minimum clear space in front.
• 15 inches (381 mm) minimum from centerline to side wall/fixture.
• These are minimums; more space is often preferred.

Memory trick: For a toilet's front, 21 inches must be won, side to side, 15 from the sun.

The minimum diameter of the pipe or funnel that receives indirect waste from commercial fixtures like a three-compartment sink.

• Prevents direct cross-connection.
• Sized for fixture's discharge capacity.
• Critical for commercial sanitation.

Memory trick: Indirect waste flow, for big sinks you know, at least three inches, let the waters go.

A vertical open space between the lowest part of a water supply outlet and the flood level rim of the fixture or receptacle it discharges into, preventing backflow.

• Essential for cross-connection control.
• Commonly used on dishwashers, RO systems, and indirect wastes.
• Minimum required distance varies by code and application.

Memory trick: Don't let dirty water creep, keep your clean water in the deep.

A device designed to prevent water hammer by absorbing the shock waves generated by the sudden closure of a valve in a plumbing system.

• Contains an air or gas-filled chamber.
• Uses a diaphragm or piston to separate water from the compressible medium.
• Absorbs pressure surges, protecting pipes and fixtures.

Memory trick: An arrestor is like a 'shock absorber' for your pipes.

The dedicated electrical branch circuit providing power to a garbage disposal unit, sized to handle its running and starting current demands.

• Typically a 15-amp or 20-amp circuit.
• Often dedicated or shared with other small kitchen appliances.
• Proper sizing prevents tripping breakers and ensures safe operation.

Memory trick: Match the appliance's power to the circuit's might, for a safe and steady light.

The minimum vertical distance from the finished grade to the top of an underground water service pipe, ensuring protection from freezing, traffic loads, and other damage.

• Minimum 12 inches cover is common.
• Must always be below the local frost line.
• Additional depth may be required for specific conditions (e.g., under roadways).

Memory trick: Frost Depth First, Then Twelve, No Pipe Burst!

A water heater designed to elevate the temperature of pre-heated water from a central source to a higher, specific temperature required by an appliance or fixture.

• Common in commercial kitchens for dishwashers.
• Raises water temperature for sanitization.
• Typically electric or gas powered.

Memory trick: Dishwasher needs a boost, so a booster heater is the choice, not a roost.

The minimum unobstructed space required from the front edge of a water closet to any opposing wall or fixture.

• Ensures user accessibility and comfort.
• Part of fixture spacing requirements.
• Specified by plumbing and building codes.

Memory trick: Toilet's front, twenty-one, for comfortable space, get it done.

The maximum volume of water that can flow out of a kitchen faucet per minute, regulated by federal and local plumbing codes.

• Aims to conserve water and energy.
• Measured in gallons per minute (GPM) at a specific pressure (e.g., 60 psi).
• Current federal standard is 1.8 GPM for kitchen faucets.

Memory trick: Different fixtures have different 'speed limits' for water.

A valve installed on the discharge of a hot water recirculation pump to prevent water from flowing backward through the pump when it is off, ensuring efficient operation and preventing heat loss due to thermosiphoning.

• Prevents thermosiphoning (ghost flow).
• Ensures pump efficiency.
• Spring-loaded types are most effective for positive shut-off.

Memory trick: Recirculation pump: Spring-loaded check, keeps the hot water in check.

Adherence to local, state, and national regulations governing the design, installation, and maintenance of plumbing systems.

• Codes ensure safety, health, and welfare.
• Deviations require official approval (e.g., variance).
• Ignorance of the code is not an excuse for non-compliance.

Memory trick: When code blocks the way, consult the authority, don't just stray.

The sum of the actual developed length of gas piping and the equivalent length of all fittings (elbows, tees, valves) in the run, used for accurate pipe sizing.

• Fittings create friction loss, reducing gas flow.
• Equivalent length tables provide values for various fittings and pipe sizes.
• Crucial for ensuring adequate gas pressure and volume to appliances.

Memory trick: Think of fittings as 'extra pipe' that adds to the total length for sizing.

The required vertical distance of a washing machine drain standpipe above its trap weir, as stipulated by plumbing codes.

• UPC minimum: 18 inches (457 mm).
• UPC maximum: 30 inches (762 mm).
• Prevents suds overflow and machine discharge issues.

Memory trick: Standpipe's height for the wash, 18 is the low, 30 is the high, no gush!

The required location for installing devices that absorb pressure surges caused by sudden valve closures in a plumbing system.

• Prevents noise and pipe damage.
• Required for quick-closing valves.
• Installation location is critical for effectiveness.

Memory trick: Quick valve close, a hammer's blow, an arrestor near, makes quiet flow.

The smallest allowable interior dimensions for a shower base or compartment, as defined by the International Plumbing Code (IPC), to ensure user safety and comfort.

• Minimum 30 inches by 30 inches (762 mm by 762 mm).
• Measured from the finished interior surfaces.
• Ensures adequate space for showering.

Memory trick: For a shower's smallest square, 30 by 30, no less, if you dare.

The determination of the correct diameter for the discharge pipe of a grease interceptor to ensure efficient flow and prevent blockages, as specified by plumbing codes.

• Typically matches the inlet pipe size.
• Minimum size often specified (e.g., 2 inches).
• Sizing calculations are based on fixture units or flow rates.

Memory trick: Inlet-Outlet Match, No Grease Catch!

The method of joining two different types of metal piping to prevent galvanic corrosion.

• Galvanic corrosion occurs due to electrical potential difference.
• Dielectric unions provide electrical insulation.
• Required by plumbing codes to ensure system longevity.

Memory trick: Different metals, don't connect, a dielectric union earns respect.

Measures taken to shield a water heater from physical impact or damage, particularly in vulnerable locations like garages or warehouses.

• Required in locations susceptible to vehicular or equipment damage.
• Common methods include bollards, protective enclosures, or guard rails.
• Prevents leaks, gas line ruptures, and electrical hazards.

Memory trick: Keep your water heater safe and sound, from impacts and leaks all around.

A procedure to verify the integrity and leak-free performance of a newly installed or repaired water distribution system by subjecting it to a specified pressure for a set duration.

• Required before concealing piping.
• Ensures system can withstand working pressure plus surge.
• Pressure gauge must remain steady for the duration.

Memory trick: Pressure test: 125 or 50 over, for 15 mins, no leaks to discover.

The most significant danger posed by an unprotected cross-connection is the potential for non-potable (contaminated) water to enter and pollute the potable (drinking) water supply.

• Leads to public health risks.
• Requires immediate action and backflow prevention.
• Can occur due to backpressure or backsiphonage.

Memory trick: Crossed lines mean poisoned sips, protect the tap from dirty drips.

The un-obstructed vertical distance between the lowest opening of an indirect waste pipe and the flood level rim of the receptor into which it discharges, preventing backflow.

• Crucial for preventing cross-contamination.
• Minimum 1 inch, typically not more than 2 inches.
• Must be visible and accessible.

Memory trick: Two Inches Max, No Backflow Attack!

The ability of a pipe material to withstand degradation due to chemical reactions with its environment, particularly relevant for underground installations in aggressive soil conditions.

• Metallic pipes are susceptible to electrochemical corrosion.
• Plastic pipes are generally immune to electrochemical corrosion.
• Soil pH, moisture, and resistivity affect corrosion rates.

Memory trick: Aggressive soil? Go plastic, it's fantastic, no rust to be drastic.

Determining minimum pipe diameter based on desired flow rate and maximum allowable water velocity to prevent erosion, noise, and excessive pressure drop.

• Higher velocity can cause erosion and noise.
• Lower velocity can lead to sediment buildup.
• Common maximum velocities are 5-8 ft/s for cold water, 4-6 ft/s for hot water.

Memory trick: Flow's Area Velocity, then pick the pipe that's free.

The minimum time required for a newly installed drainage system to hold water without leaks during a hydrostatic pressure test.

• Ensures integrity of joints and pipes.
• Mandatory inspection requirement.
• Specific duration set by code.

Memory trick: Drainage test, hydrostatic hold, for fifteen minutes, stories told.

The maximum horizontal distance between supports for PVC drainage piping, as mandated by the Uniform Plumbing Code, to prevent sagging and ensure structural integrity.

• Supports prevent pipe deflection and maintain critical slope.
• Spacing varies by pipe material, diameter, and whether it's horizontal or vertical.
• UPC typically specifies 4 feet for horizontal PVC drainage pipes.

Memory trick: PVC drainage needs a four-foot hug.

The minimum required distance from a plumbing vent pipe opening to any building opening to prevent the entry of sewer gases.

• Protects against noxious odors and gases.
• Applies to windows, doors, and air intakes.
• Specific distances mandated by plumbing codes.

Memory trick: Vent pipe high, twelve inches shy, from windows, doors, so gases fly by.

A required opening in the wall or enclosure surrounding a bathtub, providing access for inspection, maintenance, or repair of the bathtub trap.

• Ensures serviceability of hidden plumbing components.
• Prevents the need for demolition for simple repairs.
• Minimum size typically 12 inches by 12 inches.

Memory trick: Access openings are like secret doors for plumbers to get to hidden parts.

The minimum internal diameter required for the trap and trap arm connected to a bathtub.

• Ensures proper drainage and waste removal.
• Prevents clogs and maintains trap seal.
• Mandated by plumbing codes like IPC and UPC.

Memory trick: Each fixture has a specific pipe size, like shoes for different feet.

The minimum distance required by code from the center of a water closet to any adjacent side wall or obstruction.

• Ensures user comfort and accessibility.
• Prevents obstruction of fixture operation.
• Typically measured from the centerline of the fixture.

Memory trick: Clear space around the commode keeps it code-compliant.

The process of determining the minimum required vertical separation between a discharge pipe and a receiving fixture's flood level rim to prevent backflow.

• Calculated as twice the effective diameter of the discharge pipe.
• Typically has an absolute minimum (e.g., 1 inch) regardless of calculation.
• Essential for indirect waste connections to protect potable water.

Memory trick: To calculate the air gap, just 'Double the Diameter' and you're good.

A method of pipe sizing that calculates the total allowable pressure drop from the source to the most remote or highest fixture, considering static pressure changes due to elevation and minimum residual pressure requirements.

• 1 foot of head = 0.433 psi.
• Elevation gain reduces available pressure.
• Elevation loss increases available pressure.
• Minimum residual pressure is typically 8-20 psi.

Memory trick: Street pressure minus residual, minus elevation, equals friction's allowance.

The minimum required distance between potable water lines and potential sources of contamination, such as sewers or septic tanks, to protect public health.

• Prevents contamination of drinking water.
• Horizontal and vertical separation requirements exist.
• Specific distances are mandated by plumbing codes (e.g., IPC, UPC).

Memory trick: Ten Feet Keeps Water Clean and Neat!

A specialized venting arrangement for island sinks that cannot be conventionally vented, involving a vent pipe that rises above the fixture's flood level rim before connecting to a branch vent.

• Also known as a loop vent or Chicago loop.
• Ensures adequate air supply to prevent trap siphonage.
• Requires the vent portion to rise above the flood level rim of the fixture.

Memory trick: Island sink's vent, a loop it must bend, to keep the air flowing 'til the very end.

The minimum downward angle a building sewer pipe must maintain to ensure proper drainage and prevent solids from settling.

• Varies by pipe diameter.
• Ensures self-scouring velocity.
• Critical for preventing blockages.

Memory trick: Slope it right, don't let it sit, a quarter inch for four-inch fit.

The minimum unobstructed space required from the centerline of a water closet to any adjacent side wall or fixture, as per IPC standards.

• Ensures adequate user comfort and prevents overcrowding.
• Allows for proper cleaning and maintenance access.
• Mandated by plumbing codes like IPC Section 405.3.1.

Memory trick: Clearance rules are like personal space for the toilet.

Water softeners are typically installed on the main cold water supply line before the water heater to treat all hot water and prevent scale buildup.

• Protects water-using appliances from hard water.
• Extends the lifespan of water heaters and fixtures.
• Improves soap and detergent effectiveness.

Memory trick: Soft water first, hot water lasts.

A measure of the probable discharge into the drainage system by various plumbing fixtures, used to size drainage piping.

• Each fixture assigned a DFU value.
• Values differ slightly between UPC and IPC.
• Total DFU determines pipe size and vent requirements.

Memory trick: DFU: Drainage Flow Units, Find the Sum, Pipe for Fun!

The maximum permissible temperature for hot water delivered by a recirculating system, automatically limited to prevent scalding.

• Applies to multi-unit and recirculating systems.
• Typically 120°F (49°C) as per IPC.
• Achieved through thermostatic mixing valves or other automatic controls.

Memory trick: One-Twenty is Plenty, Keep Burns Empty!

The process of raising the pH of acidic condensate, typically from high-efficiency heating appliances, before it is discharged into the building's drainage system.

• Protects drainage pipes from corrosion.
• Prevents environmental harm.
• Achieved using a neutralization device containing limestone or marble chips.

Memory trick: Neutralize the Nasty, No Nuisance to Drains!

The plumbing method for venting two water closets installed back-to-back on a common drain, typically using a double-fixture fitting and a common vent.

• Uses a double-fixture fitting (fixture cross/double wye).
• Common vent connects above the centerline of the drain.
• Prevents both self-siphonage and induced siphonage for both fixtures.

Memory trick: Two toilets back-to-back, a fixture cross and high vent keeps the drain on track.

The longest permissible length for a flexible supply line connecting a fixture or appliance to the rigid water piping.

• Prevents kinking and damage.
• Ensures proper water flow.
• Standardized by plumbing codes.

Memory trick: Flexible link, three feet long, keeps the water flow strong.