IPC Water Supply and Distribution 3

Question 1

According to the IPC, what protection is required for potable water piping installed underground in contaminated soil?

Accepted Answer

The pipe must be sleeved or wrapped with approved protective material

Answer

The IPC requires that potable water piping installed in contaminated soil be protected with approved sleeves, wrapping, or encasement to prevent contaminants from permeating through the pipe wall.

Question 2

What does the IPC specify about the separation between potable water piping and sewer piping in the same trench?

Accepted Answer

The water pipe must be at least 12 inches above and to one side of the sewer pipe

Answer

The IPC requires potable water piping to be at least 12 inches above the top of the sewer pipe and on a separate shelf or support when installed in the same trench.

Question 3

Under the IPC, what testing is required for a newly installed water supply system before it is put into service?

Accepted Answer

A pressure test at not less than the working pressure, maintained for a minimum observation period

Answer

The IPC requires a hydrostatic pressure test of the water supply system at the working pressure or a minimum of 50 psi for a specified observation period to verify the system is leak-free.

Question 4

According to the IPC, what is the minimum required pipe size for a water supply branch serving a bathtub?

Accepted Answer

1/2 inch

Answer

The IPC requires a minimum 1/2-inch pipe for the water supply branch serving a bathtub.

Question 5

What does the IPC require regarding the installation of a water hammer arrestor?

Accepted Answer

They are required where quick-closing valves create water hammer

Answer

The IPC requires water hammer arrestors where quick-closing valves — such as those on washing machines, dishwashers, and solenoid valves — create water hammer in the piping system.

IPC - International Plumbing Code Practice Test

IPC - International Plumbing Code Practice Test

IPC Water Supply and Distribution 3