Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real Architecture and Design practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Systems flashcards as text
What is the standard electrical service voltage for residential buildings in the United States?
Answer: 120/240V
US residential service is single-phase 120/240V, providing 120V for standard outlets and 240V for high-demand appliances.
Which device detects small imbalances between hot and neutral current to protect against electrical shock, and is required by code near water sources?
Answer: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
GFCIs detect milliamp-level current imbalances indicating current may be flowing through a person and trip the circuit within milliseconds.
What primary advantage does three-phase electrical distribution offer over single-phase systems in large commercial buildings?
Answer: It provides smoother, more efficient power delivery for motors and large equipment
Three-phase power delivers continuous, balanced power across all phases, making it more efficient and ideal for running motors and large commercial loads.
What does an electrical panel's amperage rating indicate?
Answer: The maximum current the panel can safely carry continuously
The amperage rating indicates the maximum continuous electrical current the panel's main breaker and bussing can safely handle.
Which lighting control strategy uses photosensors to automatically reduce electric light output when sufficient daylight is available?
Answer: Daylight harvesting
Daylight harvesting systems dim or switch off electric lights proportionally as daylight increases, reducing energy consumption in perimeter zones.
What is the primary purpose of a building's electrical grounding system?
Answer: To provide a safe low-resistance path for fault currents and prevent shock hazards
Electrical grounding provides a path for fault currents to return safely to earth, causing overcurrent devices to trip and preventing dangerous voltage buildup.
Which electrical device uses electromagnetic induction to step down high utility transmission voltage to usable building service voltage?
Answer: Transformer
Transformers use electromagnetic induction between primary and secondary coils to change voltage levels from utility transmission voltages to building service voltages.