Rhode Island Journeyman Plumber Practice Exam

When measuring plumbing supply, what is typically done to check for leaks?

1. Visual inspection

2. Pressure testing

3. Water flow assessment

4. Sound testing

The correct answer is: Pressure testing

Pressure testing is a standard method employed to check for leaks in plumbing supply systems. This technique involves sealing the plumbing system and introducing pressurized water or air to determine if there are any drops in pressure over a specified period. If a decrease in pressure is observed, it indicates that there may be a leak present. This method is particularly effective because it can reveal small leaks that might not be noticeable through a visual inspection alone. Furthermore, pressure tests can be conducted in various scenarios, such as assessing newly installed piping or after repairs, ensuring the integrity of the plumbing system before it goes live or is covered by walls or floors. In comparison, other methods like visual inspection might miss hidden leaks, while water flow assessments are more focused on the system's performance rather than leak detection. Sound testing could help in specific situations but is generally not as reliable as pressure testing for systematic assessments. Pressure testing stands as a reliable and widely accepted practice in the plumbing industry for ensuring system integrity.