Master Plumber Exam Plumbing Codes and Standards 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under the IPC, what is the minimum trap seal depth required for fixture traps?
- 1 inch
- 2 inches (Correct answer)
- 3 inches
- 4 inches
Correct answer: 2 inches
The IPC requires fixture traps to maintain a minimum seal depth of 2 inches and a maximum of 4 inches.
Question 2: Which organization publishes the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) used in many western US states?
- ICC
- IAPMO (Correct answer)
- ASHRAE
- ASPE
Correct answer: IAPMO
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) publishes and maintains the Uniform Plumbing Code.
Question 3: Per the IPC, what is the maximum distance a P-trap can be located from the fixture outlet it serves?
- 12 inches
- 18 inches
- 24 inches (Correct answer)
- 36 inches
Correct answer: 24 inches
The IPC allows a maximum of 24 inches between a fixture outlet and the trap weir.
Question 4: According to the IPC, which pipe material is NOT approved for use as a building drain?
- Cast iron
- PVC
- ABS
- CPVC (Correct answer)
Correct answer: CPVC
CPVC is approved for hot and cold water supply but is not listed for use as a building drain or sanitary drainage piping.
Question 5: Under the IPC, what type of fitting is required when changing direction from vertical to horizontal in a drainage system?
- Tee
- Long-turn 90° elbow or two 45° elbows (Correct answer)
- Short-turn 90° elbow
- Sanitary cross
Correct answer: Long-turn 90° elbow or two 45° elbows
The IPC requires long-sweep fittings or combinations of 45° fittings when changing from vertical to horizontal drainage flow.
Question 6: Per the IPC, what is the minimum slope required for a 3-inch horizontal drainage pipe?
- 1/16 inch per foot
- 1/8 inch per foot (Correct answer)
- 1/4 inch per foot
- 1/2 inch per foot
Correct answer: 1/8 inch per foot
The IPC requires a minimum slope of 1/8 inch per foot for horizontal drainage pipes 3 inches and larger in diameter.
Question 7: Which code section of the IPC addresses the installation requirements for backflow prevention devices?
- Chapter 3
- Chapter 6 (Correct answer)
- Chapter 7
- Chapter 9
Correct answer: Chapter 6
IPC Chapter 6 covers water supply and distribution, including backflow prevention device installation requirements.
Under the IPC, what is the minimum trap seal depth required for fixture traps?