Journeyman Plumber Exam flashcards

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.

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 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 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 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.

The lowest acceptable water pressure at the most distant fixture in a plumbing system to ensure proper function.

• Critical for fixture performance.
• Maintained under flow conditions.
• Specified by plumbing codes.

Memory trick: Twenty pounds at the farthest spout, keeps the water flowing, no doubt.

The least amount of downward inclination required for horizontal drainage piping to ensure self-scouring velocity and proper waste removal.

• Varies by pipe diameter (e.g., 1/4 inch/foot for smaller pipes).
• Ensures solids are carried away effectively.
• Critical for preventing blockages and maintaining hygiene.

Memory trick: Quarter Inch Per Foot, Makes Waste Scoot!

The drainage fixture unit value assigned to a kitchen sink when equipped with a garbage disposal, indicating its relative load on the drainage system.

• DFU values are used to size drain, waste, and vent piping.
• A garbage disposal increases the DFU value due to added solids.
• Specific DFU values are found in plumbing code tables (e.g., IPC Table E103.3(2)).

Memory trick: DFUs are like weight classes for drains; bigger fixtures need bigger numbers.

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 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 minimum diameter for the trap arm serving a clothes washer standpipe to ensure adequate drainage.

• Clothes washer discharge is high volume.
• Requires sufficient diameter to prevent siphoning and clogging.
• Typically 2 inches is the minimum standard.

Memory trick: Washer's Water Needs Wide Way.

Different piping materials are approved for distinct applications (drainage vs. drinking water) due to varying pressure, temperature, and health requirements.

• DWV pipes handle low pressure, non-potable waste.
• Potable water pipes handle higher pressure, clean water.
• Material properties like temperature rating and leaching are critical.

Memory trick: Clean water, dirty water, different pipes, different charters!

Specialized piping material used to convey corrosive, hazardous, or high-temperature waste from laboratory or industrial processes.

• Must resist chemical attack and degradation.
• Temperature resistance is often a factor.
• Common materials include borosilicate glass, polypropylene, and specific alloys.

Memory trick: Corrosive Chemical Conduits Choose Carefully.

A type of vent that provides additional air circulation for long horizontal branch drains, specifically positioned to protect the most vulnerable fixtures.

• Used for long, heavily loaded branch drains.
• Prevents siphoning and backpressure.
• Specific connection point relative to downstream fixtures.

Memory trick: Vents Vary, Vital for Flow.

The gas appliance shutoff valve must be located within a specific, close proximity to the appliance's union or connector for safety and accessibility.

• Required for all gas-burning appliances.
• Must be readily accessible.
• Typically within 6 inches of the union or connector.

Memory trick: Keep the 'Stop' switch close to the 'Fire' machine.

A common phenomenon during water system pressure testing where a slight pressure drop occurs in the absence of visible leaks, usually due to water temperature changes.

• Water contracts when it cools
• Causes pressure drop in sealed system
• Not indicative of a leak if minor and gradual
• Allow system to stabilize before final reading

Memory trick: Pressure drop, no drip? Check the temp, it's a cooling trip!

Gas piping specifically approved and designed for installation directly into the ground without additional protective measures (beyond typical backfill).

• Must be corrosion-resistant.
• Polyethylene (PE) is a common material.
• Requires proper identification and depth.

Memory trick: PE underground, safe and sound, no rust around!

A device used to increase and maintain consistent water pressure within a building's distribution system, especially when the municipal supply pressure is inadequate or fluctuates.

• Increases low water pressure
• Maintains stable pressure
• Often includes a pressure tank and controls

Memory trick: When pressure's low, a Booster makes it flow!

The smallest allowable diameter for a vent pipe serving a horizontal branch drain, determined by the size of the drain it protects.

• Vent size must be at least half the drain size.
• Absolute minimum vent size is typically 1 1/4 inches.
• Ensures proper air circulation and prevents trap siphoning.

Memory trick: Vent's Verdict: Half the Drain, Never Less.

The determination of minimum pipe diameter for a building drain based on the total drainage fixture units (DFUs) it serves and its installed slope.

• DFU capacity increases with pipe size.
• DFU capacity increases with steeper slope.
• Critical for efficient waste removal and preventing blockages.

Memory trick: Slope and size, DFU's guide.

Plumbing codes mandate specific minimum vertical and horizontal separation distances between water and sewer lines to prevent contamination of potable water in case of a leak.

• Prevents cross-contamination from sewer breaks.
• Minimum 12 inches vertical separation when water is above sewer.
• Minimum 10 feet horizontal separation (or less with special conditions).

Memory trick: Water's gotta be a Foot above the Filth.

Proper installation of an RPZ backflow preventer is critical for its function and compliance, including specific requirements for orientation, location, and protection.

• Must be accessible for testing and maintenance.
• Must be protected from freezing and flooding.
• Discharge port must have adequate air gap/drainage.

Memory trick: RPZ Readiness Requires Reach-ability.

The process of accurately determining the gas pipe diameter for commercial appliances based on higher BTU demands, longer runs, and specific pressure requirements.

• Uses the same principles as residential, but with larger demands.
• Sizing tables are critical.
• Accuracy prevents under-gassing or over-sizing.

Memory trick: Big BTUs, Long Run, Table's the Key, Get the Sizing Done!

A strong and durable pipe material, commonly used for municipal water mains and large commercial service lines, known for its high pressure rating and resistance to external loads and corrosion.

• High strength and durability
• Excellent pressure rating
• Resistant to external loads (e.g., traffic)
• Good corrosion resistance with proper coatings

Memory trick: Heavy traffic? Ductile iron's the magic!

Flexible gas appliance connectors have a maximum allowable length specified by code to ensure safety, prevent damage, and maintain proper gas flow to the appliance.

• Used for connecting movable appliances.
• Must be approved for gas service.
• Length limit prevents kinking and damage.

Memory trick: Flexibility is good, but 'Six' feet is the 'Max' for gas connections.

The minimum vertical distance a PVB must be installed above the highest point of water usage or the flood-level rim of the fixture it protects, to prevent back-siphonage.

• Typically 6 inches or 12 inches (check local codes).
• Ensures the air inlet port is above potential contaminated water.
• Protects potable water supply from back-siphonage.
• Must also be installed vertically and be accessible for testing.

Memory trick: Higher the Breaker, Cleaner the Flow, no back-siphonage will grow!

Specialized materials used for drainage systems that transport corrosive or hazardous chemical waste, requiring high resistance to chemical attack and temperature.

• Borosilicate glass for strong acids/solvents.
• High-silicon cast iron for chemical resistance.
• Polypropylene (PP) or PVDF for specific chemicals.

Memory trick: Lab waste needs glass, not just any class.

A method of joining PEX tubing to fittings using a copper or stainless steel crimp ring that is compressed around the tubing and fitting barb with a specialized crimp tool.

• Requires proper positioning of the crimp ring over the barb fitting.
• Crimp tool must be calibrated and used correctly for a secure seal.
• Connections can be visually inspected for proper crimp.

Memory trick: Crimp ring: Cover the barb, not the tube's edge.

The critical level (CL) of an atmospheric vacuum breaker (AVB) is the point on the device that must be positioned at a specific minimum height above the flood level rim to prevent back-siphonage.

• AVBs protect against back-siphonage, not backpressure.
• The CL is typically marked on the device.
• Minimum 6 inches (152 mm) above flood level rim.

Memory trick: AVB always Aims At least Six Above.

The minimum height to which water must be filled in a DWV system during a water test to ensure pipe integrity and seal effectiveness.

• Ensures all joints and pipes are watertight.
• Pressure must be sufficient to reveal leaks.
• Standard is 'not less than 10 feet above highest fitting'.

Memory trick: Test Tall Ten, Tight Territory.

The minimum diameter requirement for the vertical vent pipe that extends through the roof and serves as the primary air inlet/outlet for the DWV system.

• Must be at least the same size as the largest soil or waste stack.
• Ensures adequate air flow for the entire system.
• Prevents siphoning and backpressure.

Memory trick: Stack's Same Size, Skyward Stream.

The maximum allowable horizontal distance a vent connector can run from an appliance to the vertical vent or chimney.

• Crucial for maintaining natural draft.
• Limited by code based on vent diameter and vertical height.
• Excessive length can cause spillage and incomplete combustion.

Memory trick: Horizontal run, keep it tight, for the draft to rise just right!

A wet vent is a pipe that functions as both a drainage pipe and a vent pipe. It must be sized to adequately handle both the drainage flow and the air circulation requirements, typically requiring a larger diameter than a dedicated dry vent.

• Acts as both drain and vent.
• Must be adequately sized for both functions.
• Minimum 2 inches for kitchen sinks/bathtubs.
• Limits on fixture types and DFU loads served.

Memory trick: Wet Vents are Dual-Purpose Pipes, Needing Extra Size to Avoid Drain Gripes.

The maximum drainage fixture units allowed on a horizontal pipe that serves as both a drainage and vent pipe, subject to specific code limitations.

• Capacity is reduced compared to dry vents.
• Specific limits for each pipe size.
• Critical for proper air circulation and drainage.

Memory trick: Wet vents get weary, carry less load.

The minimum vertical distance from the finished grade to the top of a water service pipe, primarily to protect against freezing and physical damage.

• Must be below the frost line
• Commonly 6-12 inches below frost line
• Varies by local code and climate

Memory trick: Below the frost, pipes are never lost!

The maximum permissible length of the horizontal pipe connecting a 1 1/4-inch fixture trap to its vent pipe, measured from the trap weir to the vent connection.

• Prevents trap seal loss due to siphonage or backpressure.
• Length limit is specific to the trap arm diameter.
• Measured along the centerline of the pipe.
• For 1 1/4-inch traps, typically 2 feet 6 inches (30 inches).

Memory trick: Small pipes have short arms, or they'll lose their charm!

A corrugated metal or stainless steel tubing with fittings, used to connect a gas appliance to the rigid gas piping.

• Must be listed for appliance connection.
• Maximum length typically 6 feet.
• Not for concealed installation.

Memory trick: Flex it right, keep it short, keep it exposed, for a safe gas report!

A device designed to absorb the increase in volume of water as it heats up in a closed plumbing system, preventing excessive pressure buildup.

• Contains a diaphragm that separates air from water.
• Protects water heaters, pipes, and fixtures from high pressure.
• Required in closed water systems where a backflow preventer or pressure reducing valve is installed.

Memory trick: When water heats, it expands; the tank gives it space to dance.

The maximum developed length a horizontal branch drain can be before requiring additional venting to prevent trap siphonage and back pressure.

• Varies by pipe diameter.
• Ensures adequate air circulation.
• Preventative measure against trap seal loss.

Memory trick: Longer the branch, stronger the vent.

The minimum diameter required for a cleanout located at the critical junction between a building's internal drainage system and the external sewer connection.

• Must be at least the size of the pipe served.
• Minimum 4 inches at building drain/sewer junction.
• Ensures adequate access for clearing blockages.

Memory trick: Main drain, main access, four inches or more.

A check valve in a hot water recirculation system ensures that water flows in only one direction through the return line, preventing cold water from entering the hot water supply or the pump from short-cycling.

• Essential for maintaining proper flow direction in a recirculation loop.
• Incorrect installation (backward) will completely stop recirculation.
• Typically located on the return line, before the pump or water heater connection.

Memory trick: Backward Check valve Blocks Circulation, Causing Cold.

The portion of a soil or waste stack that extends above the highest horizontal drainage branch connected to the stack and continues vertically through the roof.

• Primary vent for its drainage stack.
• Terminates above the roof.
• Equal in size to the drainage stack.
• Ensures atmospheric pressure in the drainage system.

Memory trick: Vents have roles, big and small, Stack Vent's the king of them all!

A plumbing device required for commercial establishments that discharge significant amounts of grease and oils into the drainage system, preventing blockages in public sewers.

• Required for commercial kitchens, food processing.
• Separates fats, oils, and grease (FOG).
• Must be regularly maintained and cleaned.

Memory trick: Grease in the drain, intercept the pain.

The minimum slope for horizontal storm drainage piping ensures proper flow of rainwater and prevents accumulation of debris. This slope is often less steep than sanitary drainage due to the nature of the waste.

• Prevents standing water and clogs.
• Slope varies by pipe diameter.
• Typically 1/8" per foot for 3-6 inch pipes.
• Measured as fall per linear foot of pipe.

Memory trick: Storm Drains Need Just a Slight Decline to Flow Fine.

Techniques used to connect sections of cast iron pipe in drainage, waste, and vent systems, varying in historical use and modern application.

• Lead and oakum: traditional, labor-intensive.
• No-hub couplings: modern, easy, widely used.
• Maintains integrity of the DWV system.
• Ensures leak-free connections.

Memory trick: Cast iron, strong and old, but new joints make it bold!

Water pressure is required to overcome the force of gravity to elevate water to higher fixtures, in addition to overcoming friction losses within the piping system and maintaining a minimum residual pressure at the fixture.

• 1 PSI of pressure can lift a column of water approximately 2.31 feet.
• Residual pressure (typically 8-20 PSI) must be maintained at the fixture.
• Friction losses increase with pipe length, diameter, and flow rate.

Memory trick: Pressure Pushes Pipes Up, but Friction Fights.

Different types of water heaters have varying degrees of vulnerability to sediment and particulate matter in the water supply, primarily affecting their efficiency and lifespan.

• Sediment can accumulate in any water heater, but its impact varies.
• Tankless heaters are most sensitive due to small internal passages.
• Regular flushing and filtration can mitigate sediment issues.

Memory trick: Tankless Tangles with Tiny Tubes, Trapping Troubles.

A plumbing device designed to intercept and retain fats, oils, and greases (FOG) from wastewater before they enter a sanitary sewer system, preventing blockages and environmental contamination.

• Required for commercial kitchens.
• Separates FOG by buoyancy.
• Must be regularly cleaned.
• Protects public sewer lines.

Memory trick: Interceptors Catch Specific Waste, Keeping Drains from a Nasty State.

The maximum horizontal distance from the outlet of the trap to the vent pipe opening, ensuring proper venting and preventing trap siphonage.

• Varies by trap arm diameter.
• Critical for preventing loss of trap seal.
• Measured along the centerline of the pipe.

Memory trick: Long arm, no seal, bad smell.

Determining pipe size for systems operating at higher gas pressures (e.g., 2 psig) and very large BTU demands, often in commercial or industrial settings.

• Uses specific high-pressure sizing tables.
• BTU capacities are significantly higher than low-pressure systems.
• Accuracy is crucial for safety and performance.

Memory trick: Big Boiler, High Pressure, Long Run: Table's the Answer, No Guessing, Son!

Water piping in environments prone to physical damage, chemical exposure, or extreme conditions requires additional protection beyond the pipe material itself.

• Conduit provides a physical barrier.
• Prevents damage from impact, abrasion, and spills.
• Often required by code in commercial or industrial settings.

Memory trick: Conduit Creates a Casing, Containing Chemical Catastrophes.

A standardized method used in plumbing to determine the appropriate size of water supply piping based on the total fixture units, available pressure, and desired residual pressure.

• Fixture units represent the probable flow rate for various plumbing fixtures.
• Charts or tables are used to correlate fixture units with pipe size for different pressure loss scenarios.
• Aims to ensure adequate flow and pressure at all fixtures.

Memory trick: Hunter hunts for the right pipe size, balancing flow and pressure.

Gas piping materials must be specifically approved by code for their intended application, ensuring compatibility with natural gas, durability, and safety under operating conditions.

• Material selection is critical for safety and longevity.
• Common materials include black steel, CSST, and approved copper.
• Plastics like PVC are generally prohibited indoors.

Memory trick: Gas pipes must be 'Strong' and 'Safe' – NOT 'Plastic' or 'Weak'.

A plumbing system designed to provide hot water almost instantly at fixtures by continuously circulating hot water through a dedicated loop or the existing hot water line.

• Reduces wait time for hot water
• Uses a pump to circulate water
• Can be dedicated return line or 'comfort' loop
• Saves water by reducing purging of cold water

Memory trick: For instant heat, the Recirc pump can't be beat!

A method of testing the integrity of a drainage, waste, and vent system by pressurizing it with air and observing for pressure loss.

• Detects leaks in pipes and fittings.
• Requires all openings to be sealed.
• Typically held for 15 minutes without pressure drop.

Memory trick: Pressure checks are key, for a leak-free guarantee!

The process of determining the minimum diameter of a horizontal drainage pipe based on the total drainage fixture units (DFUs) it serves and its installed pitch or slope.

• DFU capacity varies by pipe size and slope.
• Adequate sizing prevents overloading and blockages.
• Sizing tables are provided in plumbing codes.

Memory trick: Slope and size, DFU's prize.

Determining the appropriate diameter of a vent pipe that serves multiple fixtures, based on their total drainage fixture units (DFU).

• Based on total DFU served.
• Also considers developed length of the vent.
• Ensures adequate air circulation for all connected fixtures.

Memory trick: DFU, length, and pipe size, keep the air flowing, plumbing's prize!

A backflow prevention device designed to protect against back-siphonage by opening to atmosphere when supply pressure drops, commonly used on flush valve fixtures.

• Protects against back-siphonage only
• Cannot be under continuous pressure
• Requires installation above flood rim
• Common for flushometer valves, hose bibs

Memory trick: AVB for the bowl, RPZ for the whole!

The proper method of applying sealing compounds to threaded gas pipe connections to prevent leaks.

• Use approved pipe joint compound.
• Apply only to male threads.
• Ensure a thin, even coat.

Memory trick: Dope on Male, Seal it tight, Gas stays inside, all is right!

Combustion air openings communicating with the interior of a building are sized based on the appliance's BTU/hr input to ensure adequate oxygen for combustion and proper dilution of flue gases.

• Required for proper appliance operation and safety.
• Two openings (upper and lower) are typically needed.
• Size is directly related to appliance BTU/hr input.

Memory trick: BTUs need 'Air' – one square inch for every 'thousand' of 'fire'!