Are You a Master Plumber or Just a Plumber's Friend? Take This Quiz to Find Out

Maintaining the plumbing of a home or office is one of the most important aspects of construction and maintenance. Whether you need to install a sump pump or just fix a leak, you should know what you are doing before you get started. 

Otherwise, you are likely to get involved in some serious work or paying some serious plumbing bills. Whether you end up paying a hefty bill or save yourself from paying one (or more), this quiz is likely to tell you if you should consider doing the work yourself or calling a plumber.

1. What is the primary purpose of a sink trap?

{"answers":[{"answer":"To give you someplace to look when you drop your contact lens or earring down the sink","correct":false},{"answer":"To keep sewer gases from backing up into your house","correct":true},{"answer":"To keep your drain from running off","correct":false},{"answer":"To prevent sewer lines from becoming clogged with hair and other debris","correct":false}],"answerText":" Below the sink in most homes and other buildings there is what is called a sink trap, or what most plumbers call a \"P trap.\" A P trap has several purposes. These include trapping debris before it can get deeper into the plumbing system to form a clog, but its primary function is to prevent sewer gases from backing up into the home. P traps are most often made from either PVC pipe or steel, the latter used most often since it is more attractive. Local building codes often dictate which type of materials is most often used. ","answerImage":""}

2. What is the object shown in the picture?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A plumber's snake.","correct":false},{"answer":"A propane torch.","correct":true},{"answer":"A fire extinguisher.","correct":false},{"answer":" A gas pump.","correct":false}],"answerText":" A propane torch is often used by plumbers to solder copper pipe together in order to prevent leaks. ","answerImage":""}

3. What is the object shown in the picture?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A ball float.","correct":true},{"answer":"A pipe inflater.","correct":false},{"answer":"A drain pump.","correct":false},{"answer":"A plunger cap.","correct":false}],"answerText":" The purpose of a ball float is to hold the supply valve open and keep water from overfilling the tank of a toilet. ","answerImage":""}

4. What is the object shown in the picture?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A wax ring.","correct":true},{"answer":"A donut pattern.","correct":false},{"answer":"A garbage disposal cap.","correct":false},{"answer":"A pipe binder.","correct":false}],"answerText":" The purpose of a wax ring is to mount between the underside of a toilet's base and the flange attached to the waste line in the floor. The wax ring also provides an impermeable barrier that keeps the flushed sewage matter from splashing and seeping out onto the floor. ","answerImage":""}

5. What do the letters G.P.M. stand for in plumbing?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Gallons per minute.","correct":true},{"answer":"Gallon purchase monitor.","correct":false},{"answer":"Gross PEX measurement.","correct":false},{"answer":"Growth period maximum.","correct":false}],"answerText":" G.P.M. is an acronym that stands for \"gallons per minute\" which is used by plumbers to measure the total flow rate of water coming from a fixture such as a toilet or a shower head. ","answerImage":""}

6. What is PEX?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Hot water tubing.","correct":false},{"answer":"A specialty plumbing wrench.","correct":false},{"answer":"Flexible plastic pipe.","correct":true},{"answer":"Stainless steel pipe.","correct":false}],"answerText":" PEX, which is an abbreviation for cross-linked polyethylene, is a form of polyethylene with cross-links. For the most part it is used in building pipework for hydronic radiant heating and cooling systems, domestic water piping, and insulation for high tension electrical cables. ","answerImage":""}

7. What is the best way to test your sump pump?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Sump pumps are sealed. You can't test a sump pump.","correct":false},{"answer":"Pour a 5-gallon bucket of water into the sump pit.","correct":true},{"answer":"Take it apart.","correct":false},{"answer":"Drain your hot water tank onto your basement floor to simulate a flood.","correct":false}],"answerText":" The best way to test your sump pump is to fill a five-gallon bucket with water and pour it slowly around the base of the sump pump. The pump should turn on once the water level reaches a predetermined level below your basement floor. If the pump doesn’t come on, it may be either clogged or damaged. Either way, you should consider calling a licensed plumber to help. ","answerImage":""}

8. What is the equipment illustrated?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A sewer monitor.","correct":false},{"answer":"A pipe manifold.","correct":false},{"answer":"A well pump.","correct":false},{"answer":"A tankless water heater.","correct":true}],"answerText":" A tankless water heater heats water on demand instead of holding it in a tank until someone turns the tap. Tankless water heaters can save considerable amounts of energy in the long run but it costs more in up front costs. There's also no waiting for water to heat up too. ","answerImage":""}

9. What do plumbers mean when they say that they sweat a pipe?

{"answers":[{"answer":"To allow condensation to form on cold water pipes.","correct":false},{"answer":"To improperly install a pipe.","correct":false},{"answer":"To fit copper pipes together with solder.","correct":true},{"answer":"To flush a pipe with drain cleaner.","correct":false}],"answerText":" To Sweat pipes means to join them together by heating the metal and applying solder, which will melt and seal the joint. ","answerImage":""}

10. What is the best kind of sealer to use between your tub and the wall?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Sanded grout.","correct":false},{"answer":"Silicone.","correct":true},{"answer":"Any caulk will do.","correct":false},{"answer":"It doesn't matter.","correct":false}],"answerText":" Silicone provides the best waterproofing and is recommended for use around toilets, tubs, and sinks. Latex is the best option for use on mismatched surfaces. ","answerImage":""}

11. What is the object pictured?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A P-trap.","correct":false},{"answer":"A drain plunger.","correct":false},{"answer":"A heating element for a hot water heater.","correct":true},{"answer":"A U-pipe.","correct":false}],"answerText":" Hot water tanks are heated by an element that's submerged in the water. These can corrode over time but can be replaced to extend the life of your water heater. ","answerImage":""}

12. What is a closet flange?

{"answers":[{"answer":"An old fashioned pipe connector.","correct":false},{"answer":"A pipe chase hidden in a closet.","correct":false},{"answer":"An anchoring rim for a toilet.","correct":true},{"answer":"A place where the sewer line exits the house.","correct":false}],"answerText":" The closet flange anchors the toilet over the drainpipe in the floor. It should rise about 1/4-inch above the finished floor to help keep the toilet in place. ","answerImage":""}

13. Traditionally, on what side of the faucet does hot water belong?

{"answers":[{"answer":" The bottom.","correct":false},{"answer":"The left.","correct":true},{"answer":"The right.","correct":false},{"answer":"North.","correct":false}],"answerText":" You can set up your hot water line anyway you like, but tradition dictates that it should be on the left side of the faucet. ","answerImage":""}

14. What is a vent stack?

{"answers":[{"answer":"The exhaust fan for your water main.","correct":false},{"answer":"The pipe that prevents sewer gasses from leaking into the house.","correct":true},{"answer":"The vent on your water heater.","correct":false},{"answer":"The practice of layering hot and cold water pipes.","correct":false}],"answerText":" The vent stack releases fumes from your sewage system into the outside air and allows fresh air to enter your plumbing system. ","answerImage":""}

What is a "high loop"?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A drainage defect.","correct":false},{"answer":"A water line option.","correct":false},{"answer":"An old-fashioned pull-chain flush.","correct":false},{"answer":"A dishwasher drain requirement.","correct":true}],"answerText":" A \"high loop\" is how plumbers install dishwashers to drain creating an additional air gap between the dishwasher and sink drain lines. They prevent dirty water from backwashing into the dishwasher. ","answerImage":""}

16. Where does hot water become hot?

{"answers":[{"answer":"The water main.","correct":false},{"answer":"The sewer line.","correct":false},{"answer":"The water heater.","correct":true},{"answer":"The HVAC furnace.","correct":false}],"answerText":" Hot water lines begin at the water heater. In some cases, the home furnace may heat both water and air, but this is not always the case. ","answerImage":""}

17. Which of the following is NOT a plumbing fixture?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A faucet.","correct":false},{"answer":"A toilet.","correct":false},{"answer":"A shower head.","correct":false},{"answer":"New ChoAll of these are plumbing fixtures.ice","correct":true}],"answerText":" In plumbing terms, a fixture either supplies water in the house or helps dispose of it, making all of these options plumbing fixtures. Others include sinks, bathtubs, and outdoor hose lines. ","answerImage":""}

18. What is the pictured object?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A sink nut.","correct":false},{"answer":"An elbow socket.","correct":false},{"answer":" A toilet flange.","correct":false},{"answer":"A pipe reducer.","correct":true}],"answerText":" A pipe reducer is a piece of hardware used to join pipes of two different sizes, reducing the diameter from the larger one to the smaller one. ","answerImage":""}

19. What is the primary advantage of a chrome drain trap over one made of PVC?

{"answers":[{"answer":"They are virtually indestructible.","correct":false},{"answer":"They allow the water to move faster through them.","correct":false},{"answer":"They make your water taste better.","correct":false},{"answer":"They are less likely to be damaged by hot water","correct":true}],"answerText":" Chrome drain pipes are less likely to be damaged by hot water, but the primary benefit is that chrome P-traps are more decorative when you have a pedestal sink that exposes your plumbing to view. ","answerImage":""}

20. Which is NOT a possible sign of trouble with your septic system?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Slow draining toilets with odors.","correct":false},{"answer":"Visible sewage after heavy rains.","correct":false},{"answer":"Lush growth in your drain field.","correct":false},{"answer":"More birds and other wildlife in your drain field.","correct":true}],"answerText":" A failing or full septic system can allow sewage leaks and cause odors indoors and out. It can also cause lush grass growth because of flooding. Slow drainage can also be a sign, but wildlife typically isn't attracted to raw sewage. ","answerImage":""}

21. In what diameter would you be most likely to find a house's water supply lines?

{"answers":[{"answer":"1/2 inch.","correct":false},{"answer":"3/4 inch.","correct":false},{"answer":"1 inch.","correct":false},{"answer":"All of the above.","correct":true}],"answerText":" Most homes have water supply lines in 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, or 1-inch diameters, but bigger is better if you want lots of water in a short time. ","answerImage":""}

22. What is the object pictured?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A cold water extender.","correct":false},{"answer":"A water flow reducer.","correct":false},{"answer":"A washing machine shut-off valve.","correct":true},{"answer":"An interior host manifold.","correct":false}],"answerText":" A washing machine lever valve lets you to cut the water supply to your washer. ","answerImage":""}

23. How often should a 2-resident house flush their water heater tank?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Once every six months.","correct":false},{"answer":"Once every month.","correct":false},{"answer":"Once a year.","correct":true},{"answer":"Once every eight months.","correct":false}],"answerText":" For a home with two residents: Inspect the water heater every six months and drain it once a year. Three to five people residing in a home: Inspect the water heater every four months and drain it every eight months. Six or more people residing in a home: Inspect the water heater every four months and drain it every six months. ","answerImage":""}

24. What is the function of a faucet aerator?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Improving water quality.","correct":false},{"answer":"Improving water pressure.","correct":false},{"answer":"Reducing the rate of water flow.","correct":true},{"answer":"Absorbing minerals from tap water.","correct":false}],"answerText":" By restricting water flow faucet aerators help you save water and money without feeling like you have a water pressure problem. According to the EPA, installing faucet aerators is the single most effective water-saving plumbing change you can make! ","answerImage":""}

25. What is the object pictured?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A drain stick.","correct":true},{"answer":"A pipe cleaner.","correct":false},{"answer":"A plumber's snake.","correct":false},{"answer":"A sewer pipe.","correct":false}],"answerText":" A drain stick helps clear hair and trapped particles from the drain to the trap to keep sink and bathtub drains clear. By contrast, a plumber's snake is longer and made of metal, and is also known as a drain auger. ","answerImage":""}

26. What is the rubber end of a plunger called?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A coccyx.","correct":false},{"answer":"A drain bulb.","correct":false},{"answer":"A suction cup.","correct":true},{"answer":"A goblet.","correct":false}],"answerText":" A plunger is forced down against the drain opening, then pulls out which creates a vacuum and sucks up all stuck material. It usually consists of just a suction cup on a stick. ","answerImage":""}

27. What does the valve pictured do?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Controls the amount of water that gets through the pipe.","correct":true},{"answer":"Filters the water.","correct":false},{"answer":"Controls the water's temperature.","correct":false},{"answer":"Controls the amount of fluoride in the water.","correct":false}],"answerText":" Tap shut-off valves control the amount of water that goes through the pipe. A shut-off valve that only moves a quarter-turn probably has a ceramic disc, while one that moves farther likely uses a rubber washer to control water. ","answerImage":""}

28. The EPA recommends that you drain a standard septic tank how often?

{"answers":[{"answer":"Every week.","correct":false},{"answer":"Every three to five years.","correct":true},{"answer":"Every year.","correct":false},{"answer":"It never needs to be pumped out.","correct":false}],"answerText":" How often you pump your septic tank depends largely on how much use your system gets, although the average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks should typically be pumped every three to five years. ","answerImage":""}

29. What is the object pictured?

{"answers":[{"answer":"A sink sprayer.","correct":true},{"answer":"A pipe cleaner.","correct":false},{"answer":"A fire hose.","correct":false},{"answer":"A shower head.","correct":false}],"answerText":" You can use your sink hose to wash your dishes, give a baby a bath, or to take a shower, even if it is kind of disgusting. ","answerImage":""}

30. According to the US Department of Energy, what temperature should the "majority of the population" set their hot water heater to?

{"answers":[{"answer":"220 degrees.","correct":false},{"answer":"120 degrees.","correct":true},{"answer":"160 degrees.","correct":false},{"answer":"60 degrees.","correct":false}],"answerText":" The EPA recommends that you set the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees to save energy. If you have a suppressed immune system or chronic respiratory disease, you may consider keeping your hot water tank at 140ºF to mitigate risk of promoting legionellae bacteria. ","answerImage":""}