IPC - International Plumbing Code Water Supply and Distribution Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to the IPC, what is the minimum required size for a water service pipe?

Accepted Answer

3/4 inch

Answer

IPC Section 603.1 states that the water service pipe shall be sized to supply water to the building in the quantities and at the pressures required elsewhere in the code. It specifies that the water service pipe shall not be smaller than 3/4 inch in diameter.

Question 2

A newly installed potable water distribution system must be tested for leaks. According to the IPC, what is the required test pressure if using water, and for how long must it be maintained?

Accepted Answer

Not less than the working pressure under which it is to be used, for 15 minutes

Answer

IPC Section 312.5 specifies the testing requirements for water supply systems. It states that upon completion, the system shall be tested and proved tight under a water pressure not less than the working pressure under which it is to be used. The water used for tests shall be obtained from a potable source of supply. The required test pressure shall be maintained for a period of not less than 15 minutes.

Question 3

In a commercial building, the static water pressure from the city main is found to be 95 psi. What action is required by the IPC?

Accepted Answer

Install a pressure-reducing valve to reduce the pressure to 80 psi or less.

Answer

IPC Section 604.8 states that where the water pressure within a building exceeds 80 psi static, a pressure-reducing valve shall be installed to reduce the pressure to 80 psi or less. This protects fixtures and appliances from damage due to excessive pressure.

Question 4

Which of the following is an unacceptable location for a potable water service pipe according to the IPC?

Accepted Answer

Located in, under, or above a septic tank drainage field.

Answer

IPC Section 603.2.1 explicitly prohibits potable water service pipes from being located in, under, or above cesspools, septic tanks, septic tank drainage fields, or seepage pits to prevent contamination of the potable water supply.

Question 5

A plumber is installing a hot water storage tank in an attic where leakage could cause damage to the structure below. Which of the following is required by the IPC?

Accepted Answer

Installation of the tank within a corrosion-resistant pan with a drain.

Answer

IPC Section 504.7 mandates that where water heaters or hot water storage tanks are installed in locations where leakage will cause damage, the tank or water heater shall be installed in a pan. The pan must be of a corrosion-resistant material and have a drain that terminates in an approved location.

IPC - International Plumbing Code Practice Test

IPC - International Plumbing Code Practice Test

IPC - International Plumbing Code Water Supply and Distribution Questions and Answers