Plumbing Tools & Techniques 2

Question 1

What tool is used to make flared connections on soft copper or aluminum tubing?

Accepted Answer

Flaring tool

Answer

Pipe expander

Answer

Swage tool

Answer

Pipe bender

Question 2

What is a basin wrench used for?

Accepted Answer

Reaching and tightening faucet mounting nuts in tight spaces under sinks

Answer

Tightening large pipe fittings under sinks

Answer

Removing drain basket strainers

Answer

Tightening supply line connections

Question 3

What tool measures the flow rate of water coming from a pipe or fixture?

Accepted Answer

Flow meter or bucket-and-stopwatch method

Answer

Manometer

Answer

Pressure gauge

Answer

Water meter

Question 4

What is a drain snake (plumber's snake) used for?

Accepted Answer

Clearing clogs in drain lines by physically breaking up or retrieving blockages

Answer

Threading new pipe through walls

Answer

Measuring drain slope

Answer

Testing drain pressure

Question 5

What is the purpose of flux when soldering copper pipe?

Accepted Answer

To clean the metal and prevent oxidation, allowing solder to flow into the joint

Answer

To add strength to the solder joint

Answer

To fill gaps in poorly fitting joints

Answer

To color the solder for identification

Question 6

What is a pipe bender used for and when is it preferred over fittings?

Accepted Answer

Bending soft copper or conduit to change direction without fittings; preferred to reduce joint count and cost

Answer

Measuring pipe diameter; preferred on large-diameter pipe

Answer

Straightening bent pipe; preferred for repairs

Answer

Flaring pipe ends; preferred for gas connections