CAT Aquatic Technicians Skills and Knowledge Areas 3

Question 1

Which method is used to eliminate chloramines from a pool by adding enough chlorine to reach a specific oxidation threshold?

Accepted Answer

Breakpoint chlorination (typically 10x the combined chlorine level)

Answer

Superchlorination at 1 ppm above normal

Answer

Adding a non-chlorine shock oxidizer only

Answer

Draining and refilling 50% of the pool water

Question 2

A pool heater fails to ignite. After confirming gas supply is adequate, what should the technician check next?

Accepted Answer

Flow switch or pressure switch to ensure adequate water flow

Answer

Calcium hardness levels in the pool water

Answer

Cyanuric acid concentration

Answer

Backwash valve position on the filter

Question 3

When reading a multiport valve position, 'RECIRCULATE' bypasses which component?

Accepted Answer

The filter

Answer

The pump

Answer

The heater

Answer

The chlorinator

Question 4

What does a saturation index (Langelier Saturation Index) value of +0.5 indicate about pool water?

Accepted Answer

The water is slightly scale-forming

Answer

The water is slightly corrosive

Answer

The water is balanced

Answer

The water is dangerously over-saturated

Question 5

A salt chlorine generator (SWG) is producing low chlorine output even though salt levels are correct. What is the most common cause?

Accepted Answer

Calcium buildup on the electrolytic cell plates

Answer

pH is too low (below 7.0)

Answer

Total alkalinity is above 120 ppm

Answer

Water temperature is above 85°F

Question 6

Under OSHA guidelines, when handling concentrated muriatic acid for pool pH adjustment, a technician must wear:

Accepted Answer

Chemical splash goggles, acid-resistant gloves, and a face shield

Answer

Only nitrile gloves

Answer

Standard work gloves and safety glasses

Answer

A dust mask and latex gloves

Question 7

What is the primary purpose of a pool skimmer weir door?

Accepted Answer

To regulate the flow of water into the skimmer and maintain a consistent surface skimming action

Answer

To prevent debris from re-entering the pool after being skimmed

Answer

To protect the pump from large debris entering the suction line

Answer

To equalize pressure between the skimmer and main drain