Journeyman Plumber Exam flashcards

An indirect waste is a drainage pipe that discharges into a plumbing fixture, receptor, or interceptor that is not an integral part of the building drainage system. It provides an air gap or air break to prevent cross-contamination.

• Prevents cross-contamination.
• Uses air gap or air break.
• Required for food/beverage equipment.
• Required for medical/dental equipment.

Memory trick: Indirect Means No Direct Link, Avoiding Contamination, We Think!

Cleanouts are access points in a DWV system that allow for the clearing of blockages. Their size is typically dictated by the diameter of the drainage pipe they serve.

• Cleanout size generally matches pipe size.
• Minimum 1 1/2 inches for 1 1/2" to 2" pipes.
• Minimum 2 inches for 2 1/2" to 3" pipes.
• Minimum 3 inches for 4" pipes and larger (or same size as pipe up to 4").

Memory trick: Cleanouts Match Pipe Diameter for Clear Passage.

The differential pressure relief valve in an RPZ assembly must open when the pressure in the zone between the two check valves drops to a specific minimum differential below the supply pressure, ensuring protection.

• RPZs protect against both back-siphonage and backpressure.
• Relief valve opens to atmosphere to maintain a safe pressure differential.
• Minimum differential for relief valve opening is 2.0 PSI.

Memory trick: RPZ Relief needs Two PSI to Protect.

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing comes in three main types (a, b, c), differentiated by their manufacturing process and resulting material properties, affecting flexibility and fitting compatibility.

• PEX-a: Engel method, most flexible, shape memory, expansion fittings.
• PEX-b: Silane method, good flexibility, crimp/clamp fittings.
• PEX-c: E-beam method, least flexible, crimp/clamp fittings.

Memory trick: PEX-a's Amazing Ability: Always Auto-Adjusting.

A required access point for cleaning installed near the connection of the building's internal drainage system to the main sewer line.

• Crucial for clearing blockages where drain meets sewer.
• Specific distance requirement for placement.
• Ensures accessibility for maintenance.

Memory trick: Cleanouts Close to Connections, Clear the Clogs.

The maximum length of a fixture drain from its trap weir to the vent pipe connection, measured along the centerline of the pipe.

• Prevents trap siphonage.
• Varies by fixture type and pipe size.
• Ensures proper air circulation in the DWV system.

Memory trick: Long drains need a friend, or your trap will end!

A type of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing manufactured using the Engel method, known for its high flexibility, memory, and ability to be expanded for fittings.

• Engel method (peroxide)
• Highest degree of cross-linking
• Superior flexibility, even in cold
• Allows for expansion fittings

Memory trick: PEX-A for 'Awesome' flexibility and 'Engel' method's spell!

The maximum amount of pressure that can be lost due to friction in a water distribution system while still maintaining adequate residual pressure at the most remote or highest fixture.

• Calculated by (Available Pressure - Residual Pressure - Static Head)
• Crucial for pipe sizing with Hunter's Curve
• Expressed in psi or feet of head
• Excessive friction loss leads to low pressure

Memory trick: Budget your pressure: Start high, lose some, but end right!

Water distribution systems must be pressure tested at a specified minimum pressure, typically higher than the working pressure, for a set duration to ensure joint integrity and detect leaks.

• Required before final inspection and covering.
• Pressure typically 1.5 times working pressure or 125 PSI, whichever is greater.
• Test duration usually 15-30 minutes with no observable pressure drop or leaks.

Memory trick: Test at one-and-a-half times the Max, or One-twenty-five, whichever's more.

The control of water pressure within a plumbing system to maintain it within safe and acceptable limits, often achieved using a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV).

• Plumbing codes typically set maximum allowable static pressure (e.g., 80 PSI).
• PRVs reduce high incoming pressure to a safer, more manageable level.
• Protects fixtures, appliances, and pipes from damage due to excessive pressure.

Memory trick: Pressure check: Is the supply too high for the code's eye?

The minimum safe distance required between a vent connector and combustible materials to prevent fire hazards.

• Varies by vent type (single-wall, double-wall).
• Varies by appliance category.
• Reduced with approved shielding.

Memory trick: Single-wall, six inches clear, keep the combustibles far from here!

The downward inclination of horizontal drainage piping, measured in inches per foot, to ensure proper flow and self-scouring.

• Ensures waste moves effectively.
• Prevents solids from settling.
• Varies by pipe diameter.

Memory trick: Slope it right, keep it clear, no clogs, no fear!

The correct placement, connection, and sizing of a device designed to separate grease and oils from wastewater before it enters the public sewer system.

• Prevents grease buildup in sewer lines.
• Requires frequent cleaning.
• Must be properly sized and vented.
• NOT to be connected in series.

Memory trick: Grease trap's job, keep it clean, no series, less scene!

A Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer (RPZ) is mandated for preventing contamination from high-hazard cross-connections, such as those found in medical facilities or chemical plants.

• Highest level of mechanical backflow protection
• Protects against back-siphonage and backpressure
• Required for high-hazard applications (e.g., medical, industrial)
• Includes two check valves and a relief valve

Memory trick: Medical means maximum, so RPZ is the minimum!

Sizing hot water distribution piping involves calculating the anticipated flow rate based on fixture demand, pressure loss, and velocity limits to ensure adequate supply.

• Fixture units or GPM demand for each hot water fixture.
• Simultaneous demand (demand factors) for multiple fixtures.
• Available pressure, pipe length, and material also influence sizing.

Memory trick: Fixtures Fuel the Flow, Sizing Follows.

The developed length of a fixture trap arm is the total length of the drainage pipe from the trap weir to the vent pipe fitting, measured along the centerline of the pipe.

• Prevents trap siphonage.
• Length varies by trap/pipe size.
• Typically 3'6" for 1 1/2" pipe.
• Prevents excessive pressure fluctuations.

Memory trick: Trap Arms Must Be Short Enough to Vent, Long Enough to Connect.

The process of determining the correct diameter of gas piping to ensure adequate gas flow and pressure to appliances based on BTU/hr demand, pipe length, and allowable pressure drop.

• Ensures sufficient gas supply to appliances.
• Prevents excessive pressure drops.
• Uses sizing tables based on pipe material and gas type.

Memory trick: BTU Length Drop, Size it right, or gas won't ignite!

Galvanic corrosion occurs when dissimilar metals are in electrical contact in an electrolyte (water), causing the less noble metal to corrode. Dielectric unions prevent this by electrically isolating the metals.

• Common with copper and galvanized steel connections.
• Less noble metal (galvanized steel) corrodes faster.
• Dielectric unions use non-conductive materials to break the electrical path.

Memory trick: Dielectric Divides Dissimilar Duos, Detouring Degradation.

A specific test procedure for a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) backflow preventer to verify the proper operation of the differential pressure relief valve.

• Relief valve maintains a differential pressure (typically 2 PSI) above the downstream pressure.
• If the differential drops, the relief valve opens to discharge water.
• Failure to maintain differential or opening at the wrong time indicates a malfunction.

Memory trick: RPZ relief: zero pressure means zero protection, a test of trust.

The appropriateness of various piping materials for burial in soil to convey drainage, waste, and vent, considering factors like corrosion, strength, and longevity.

• Corrosion resistance is paramount for underground pipes.
• Strength to withstand earth loads is important.
• Material must be approved by local plumbing codes.

Memory trick: Buried Pipes Pick Proper Plastics.

The vertical distance from the crown weir to the dip of a trap, representing the depth of water that forms the seal.

• Prevents sewer gas entry.
• Must be maintained for effective operation.
• Minimum and maximum depths are code-regulated.

Memory trick: A P-trap's seal, a smelly deal, ensures gas won't feel so real!

Vent pipe sizing is based on the total drainage fixture unit (DFU) load served by the vent, the developed length of the vent, and the size of the drainage pipe it serves. It ensures adequate air circulation and prevents trap siphonage.

• Based on DFU load.
• Based on vent developed length.
• Minimum 1/2 size of drain served.
• Critical for DWV system function.

Memory trick: Vent Size Depends on Load and Length, Giving the System Its Strength.

Essential steps taken to ensure safety and system integrity after repairing a gas leak.

• Isolate gas supply first.
• Ventilate hazard area.
• Perform leak test after repair.

Memory trick: Repair the leak, then test the line, safety first, make it shine!

The required filling height for a water test on a DWV system to ensure all parts are adequately pressurized and check for leaks.

• Fill to highest fixture or highest part of system.
• Maintained for a specific duration (e.g., 15 minutes).
• Checks for visible leaks at joints and connections.

Memory trick: Test high, no lie, for a dry pipe by and by.

Horizontal drainage pipes are sized based on the total drainage fixture unit (DFU) load they carry and their slope. Proper sizing ensures adequate flow capacity and self-scouring velocity to prevent blockages.

• DFU load determines pipe size.
• Slope impacts capacity.
• Steeper slope = higher capacity.
• Refer to code sizing tables.

Memory trick: Pipe Size and Slope Dictate the DFUs it Can Cope.

A mandatory procedure to verify the integrity and leak-free performance of water service piping before it is concealed or put into service.

• Typically tested with air or water.
• Minimum pressure usually 100 PSI.
• Duration of test is critical (e.g., 15 minutes to 2 hours).

Memory trick: Service pipe: 100 PSI to prove it's tight.

The reduction in CPVC piping's maximum allowable operating pressure as the water temperature within the pipe increases, a critical factor for hot water system design.

• Pressure rating decreases with temperature rise
• Significant derating above 140°F (60°C)
• Must be considered for commercial hot water
• Can lead to premature failure if not accounted for

Memory trick: CPVC's hot, but its pressure drops a lot!

Sizing gas piping for medium pressure (0.5 psi to 5 psi) systems involves using specific tables that account for supply pressure, pressure drop, specific gravity, BTU load, and pipe length.

• Tables are different for low (less than 0.5 psi) and medium (0.5-5 psi) pressure systems.
• Pressure drop is a critical factor in sizing.
• Specific gravity of the gas affects flow capacity.

Memory trick: Pressure, Flow, Length, and Gas – Don't forget the Gravity, alas!

Choosing the appropriate piping material for hot water distribution based on temperature, pressure, chemical resistance, durability, and code requirements.

• CPVC is excellent for high-temperature and chemical resistance.
• Copper (Type L or K) is durable but can be susceptible to certain chemical corrosions.
• PEX has temperature and pressure limitations, and varying chemical resistance.
• Galvanized steel is generally unsuitable for modern hot water systems.

Memory trick: For hot water and chemicals, choose carefully, not just any pipe will do.

Malfunction of the check valve in a hot water recirculation system, typically allowing cold water to enter and mix with the hot water in the loop.

• Check valve prevents reverse flow
• Stuck open allows cold water into hot line
• Results in lukewarm 'hot' water
• Causes recirculation pump to run longer

Memory trick: Stuck valve, cold flow, instant hot water is a no-show!

The maximum allowable distance between access points (cleanouts) in a drainage system to facilitate pipe cleaning.

• Ensures accessibility for snaking/clearing blockages.
• Required at specific intervals and locations.
• Prevents extensive pipe removal for maintenance.

Memory trick: Access for all, every 100 feet, or a clog's defeat!

An air test for a DWV system involves pressurizing the entire system with air and monitoring for pressure drops to detect leaks. Any significant pressure drop indicates a leak that must be located and repaired.

• Minimum 5 psi test pressure.
• Held for 15 minutes.
• No perceptible pressure drop allowed.
• Detects leaks in joints/fittings.

Memory trick: Air Test Pressure Must Hold Tight, No Drop Allowed, Day or Night.

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'!

The strategic installation of a backwater valve to protect a building's entire drainage system from sewage backflow from an overloaded public sewer.

• Protects against sewer surcharging.
• Installed on the building drain.
• Must be accessible for maintenance.
• Typically at the property line or foundation egress.

Memory trick: Stop the flow, protect the home, where the sewer meets your dome!

The vent stack termination height refers to the minimum vertical distance a vent pipe must extend above the roof surface. This ensures proper operation of the DWV system and prevents issues like blockage.

• Prevents blockage from snow/ice.
• Prevents odors from entering building.
• Minimum 6 inches above roof.
• May be higher in snow regions.

Memory trick: Vents Rise Six Inches High, So Air Can Freely Fly.

The plumbing configuration around a water softener that allows certain cold water lines to bypass the softening process, providing unsoftened water to specific fixtures.

• Commonly used for outdoor hose bibs, drinking water, and sometimes toilets.
• Prevents unnecessary use of softened water.
• Ensures proper water quality for specific applications.

Memory trick: For fresh, unsoftened sip, bypass the softener, make the trip.

The condition where flue gases from an appliance fail to vent properly and spill into the occupied space, often indicated at a draft hood.

• Indicates a venting or combustion air problem.
• Can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Commonly caused by negative building pressure or blocked vents.

Memory trick: Spillage means trouble, air or vent is the rubble!

The reduction in water pressure due to the vertical rise (elevation) of the plumbing system, where pressure decreases approximately 0.433 PSI for every foot of elevation.

• Caused by the weight of the water column above a point.
• Does not depend on water flow, only elevation.
• Critical factor in sizing pipes and selecting pumps for multi-story buildings.

Memory trick: Higher you go, lower the PSI – 0.433 is the key.

A type of particulate-filtering facepiece respirator that filters at least 95% of airborne particles, but is not resistant to oil.

• Filters airborne particulates (dust, mist, fumes)
• Rated to filter 95% of particles 0.3 microns or larger
• Does not protect against gases or vapors
• Requires proper fit testing

Memory trick: N95: N-o particles, 95% filtered.

A power tool used for cutting hard materials like metal, often featuring a large, abrasive disc that grinds through the material.

• Ideal for cutting steel pipe and rebar
• Produces fast, straight cuts
• Generates sparks and heat
• Requires proper PPE (eye, hearing, respiration)

Memory trick: Abrasive saw: Sparks fly, pipe divides.

A trenching condition where the excavation is made entirely in a solid mineral material that can be excavated with vertical sides and remain intact.

• No protective system required by OSHA
• Must be free from hazards (e.g., loose rock, water)
• Competent person must classify and approve
• Differs from other soil types (Type A, B, C)

Memory trick: Rock solid, no need for the shoring squad.

A categorization system for fire extinguishers based on the types of fires they are designed to put out.

• Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper)
• Class B: Flammable liquids/gases (oil, gasoline)
• Class C: Energized electrical equipment
• Class D: Combustible metals

Memory trick: ABC: Anything, Boiling, Current.

A chemical solution applied to PVC pipe and fittings before cement, designed to clean and soften the plastic surface for optimal solvent fusion.

• Cleans dirt and grease
• Softens/pre-dissolves the PVC surface
• Enhances bond strength of solvent cement
• Required for most PVC piping codes

Memory trick: Prime to Prep, Cement to Connect.

Safety precautions for operating powered drain cleaning machines with rotating cables to prevent entanglement and injury.

• Wear tight-fitting clothing
• Use appropriate gloves (leather or heavy-duty)
• Wear eye protection
• Maintain firm grip on cable; avoid letting it kink

Memory trick: Tight clothes save lives from spinning woes.

A wrench that uses a strong, flexible strap to grip and turn pipes or fittings, preventing surface damage.

• Non-marring grip
• Adjustable for various pipe sizes
• Effective in confined spaces
• Requires sufficient strap length for grip

Memory trick: Strap it tight, don't scratch it right.

A confined space (limited entry/exit, not for continuous occupancy) with one or more recognized hazards (e.g., atmospheric, engulfment, entrapment).

• Requires written permit program
• Mandatory atmospheric testing (O2, flammables, toxics)
• Requires attendant, entry supervisor, and authorized entrants
• Rescue plan and equipment must be in place

Memory trick: Permit, Test, Ventilate, Enter: Stay Safe, Don't Hesitate!

OSHA's requirement for the maximum angle at which a trench wall in Type C soil can be sloped to prevent cave-ins.

• Type C is the least stable soil classification
• Maximum slope is 1.5:1 (34 degrees)
• Applies to excavations less than 20 feet deep
• Competent person must classify soil type

Memory trick: A is sharp, B is balanced, C is flat.

Safe operating procedures for machines that cut threads onto pipes, emphasizing prevention of rotational hazards.

• Secure pipe clamping is critical
• Wear appropriate eye protection
• Keep hands clear of rotating parts
• Ensure machine is properly grounded

Memory trick: Clamp it tight, or it's a fright!

The minimum vertical distance required between the critical level (CL) marking on a Pressure Vacuum Breaker and the flood level rim (FLR) of the fixture or equipment it protects.

• Ensures proper functioning of the PVB's air inlet valve.
• Prevents back-siphonage contamination of potable water.
• Standard minimum is 12 inches (1 foot).
• CL must be above the highest FLR served.

Memory trick: PVB: Twelve Inches Up, Water Safe to Sup.

The minimum horizontal distance required between the termination of a vent pipe above the roof and any openable window, door, or other building opening.

• Prevents sewer gases from entering the building's interior.
• Ensures proper dilution and dispersion of gases.
• Typically 10 feet according to major plumbing codes.
• Applies to all types of openings, including skylights.

Memory trick: Vents need space, so gases don't invade your place.

The process of determining the minimum diameter of a vent pipe required for a horizontal branch drain to ensure proper air circulation and prevent trap seal loss.

• Vent size depends on the total DFU served by the branch drain.
• Vent size depends on the diameter of the branch drain.
• Vent size depends on the developed length of the vent pipe.
• Most codes require the vent to be at least half the diameter of the drain, but never less than 1 1/4 inches.

Memory trick: Don't Forget Vents, Diameter, and Developed Length!

A pipe wrench is a heavy-duty adjustable wrench used for turning and holding pipes and pipe fittings, especially those that are corroded or seized.

• Features serrated, adjustable jaws for a strong grip.
• Designed for round pipes and fittings.
• Provides high leverage for loosening tight connections.

Memory trick: Pipes always need a strong GRIP to twist free.

Determining the minimum diameter of large-capacity building drains based on high total drainage fixture units (DFU) and specified slope.

• Critical for commercial/industrial buildings with many fixtures.
• Sizing charts are essential for accurate determination.
• Slope plays a significant role in DFU capacity.
• Undersizing leads to backups and system failure.

Memory trick: Big Building Drain: DFU, Slope, Chart, No Joke.

Materials approved for use in horizontal drainage piping installed below grade, outside or beneath a building structure.

• Must withstand external loads (soil, traffic).
• Must be corrosion-resistant.
• Must be durable for long-term service.
• Common options include cast iron, PVC, and occasionally ABS.

Memory trick: Underground, only Tough pipes Survive.

The minimum pressure at which a newly installed or modified gas piping system must be tested to verify its integrity and detect leaks before being put into service.

• Typically 10 psig for residential systems.
• Test duration is usually 10-15 minutes.
• Pressure must remain constant during the test.

Memory trick: Gas pipes must be TIGHT, so TEST them RIGHT!

The cumulative BTU/hr rating of all gas-fired appliances connected to a specific segment of gas piping, used for sizing purposes.

• Calculated by summing individual appliance ratings.
• Determines the required flow rate of gas.
• Essential for accurate pipe sizing to prevent pressure drops.

Memory trick: To size a gas pipe, you need the TOTAL HEAT, LENGTH, and PRESSURE DROP.

The required upward slope of a horizontal vent connector to ensure proper natural draft and efficient removal of flue gases.

• Minimum 1/4 inch per foot of horizontal run.
• Ensures condensate drainage and proper draft.
• Applies to Category I (natural draft) appliances.

Memory trick: Natural draft needs a RISE to FLY UP and AWAY.

Water service pipes must be buried below the local frost line to prevent freezing, with additional depth often mandated by plumbing codes.

• Prevents freezing of water in the pipe.
• Based on local climate and geological conditions (frost line).
• Local plumbing codes often specify a minimum depth below the frost line.

Memory trick: Deeper than the freeze, your water flows with ease.