Plumbing, Electrical & HVAC Systems Flashcards

What is the maximum distance allowed between support hangers for horizontal copper water supply pipe (3/4 inch)?

Answer: 8 feet

Horizontal copper pipe up to 1-1/4 inches in diameter requires support at maximum 6-foot intervals; 3/4-inch copper is commonly cited at 6 feet, though some codes specify 8 feet — inspectors should note unsupported long spans.

During inspection, an inspector finds a bathroom exhaust fan that terminates into the attic. What should be reported?

Answer: The fan duct must terminate to the exterior; discharging into the attic causes moisture damage and mold

Exhaust fans must terminate outside the building; discharging into the attic introduces moisture that causes structural damage and mold growth.

A home inspector tests a receptacle near a kitchen sink and the GFCI trips with the tester, but when reset, the outlet shows correct wiring. What is the correct action?

Answer: This indicates proper GFCI function; no deficiency exists

A GFCI that trips when tested and resets properly to provide power is functioning correctly — tripping on test is the desired behavior.

What does the presence of yellow (gas) corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) bonded to the electrical system indicate?

Answer: Proper installation practice — CSST requires bonding to minimize arc puncture risk from nearby lightning strikes

CSST must be bonded to the electrical grounding system because nearby lightning strikes can arc through the thin stainless wall, causing gas leaks and fires.

An inspector finds a furnace heat exchanger with visible cracks. What is the primary health concern?

Answer: Carbon monoxide from combustion gases can enter the air distribution system and living space

Cracks in the heat exchanger allow combustion gases, including deadly carbon monoxide, to mix with circulated air and enter the living space.

A home built in 1965 has galvanized steel supply pipes. The inspector observes low water pressure throughout the house. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Interior corrosion and mineral buildup has reduced the internal diameter of the aging galvanized pipes

Galvanized steel corrodes from the inside out over decades, accumulating rust and mineral deposits that restrict flow and reduce pressure.

What is the significance of a 'double-pole 20-amp' breaker in a residential panel compared to a 'single-pole 20-amp' breaker?

Answer: A double-pole breaker provides 240 volts across two legs; a single-pole provides 120 volts on one leg

A double-pole breaker connects across both hot legs of the panel to supply 240V for appliances like dryers and ranges, while a single-pole supplies 120V for standard outlets.