Plumbing Systems Inspection Flashcards
7 cards from real INTERNACHI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Plumbing Systems Inspection flashcards as text
During a home inspection, the inspector notices the main water shutoff valve is a gate valve that is difficult to turn. The inspector should:
Answer: Note it as a deficiency and recommend evaluation by a plumber
A difficult-to-operate main shutoff is a safety concern and should be noted; the inspector should not force it, as it may break.
What is a 'p-trap' designed to do?
Answer: Hold water to block sewer gases from entering the home
A p-trap holds a water seal that blocks sewer gases and vermin from entering the living space through the drain opening.
What is the maximum temperature the water heater thermostat should be set to in order to prevent scalding while also inhibiting Legionella bacteria growth?
Answer: 120°F
120°F is the commonly recommended setting that balances scald prevention with inhibiting Legionella growth, per most health and safety guidelines.
An inspector finds that a washing machine drain hose is inserted more than 4 inches into the standpipe. This creates a risk of:
Answer: Back-siphonage of contaminated water into the machine
Inserting the drain hose too deep into the standpipe can create a siphon that draws contaminated drain water back into the washing machine.
Which of the following best describes 'cross-connection' in plumbing?
Answer: A physical link where potable water may be contaminated by non-potable sources
A cross-connection is any actual or potential link between the potable water supply and a source of contamination or pollution.
What does the presence of active corrosion (green staining) at copper pipe joints indicate?
Answer: Pinhole leaks or ongoing moisture at the joint
Green staining (verdigris) at copper joints indicates active or past moisture, suggesting a slow leak or pinhole corrosion that warrants further evaluation.
An inspector observes a plumbing vent pipe that terminates inside an attic rather than through the roof. This is:
Answer: A defect that allows sewer gases to accumulate in the attic
Plumbing vents must terminate to the exterior, typically through the roof; terminating inside an attic allows toxic and flammable sewer gases to accumulate.