Journeyman Plumber 2 practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q11A Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) is appropriate for which type of cross-connection?
✓ Correct answer: C. Low-hazard (non-health-hazard) cross-connections
A DCVA consists of two independently acting check valves and is approved for low-hazard (non-health-hazard) cross-connections such as fire suppression systems without additives or irrigation without chemical injection. It is NOT acceptable for high-hazard applications.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q12Which backflow preventer type is specifically designed to protect against back-siphonage only, and is commonly found on hose bibs?
✓ Correct answer: D. Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)
An Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) protects only against back-siphonage by opening to atmosphere when supply pressure drops to zero. It cannot be used where the downstream side may be pressurized and is commonly used on hose bibs and simple irrigation lines.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q13What is the key difference between a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) and an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)?
✓ Correct answer: A. A PVB contains an internally loaded check valve and can withstand sustained downstream pressure, while an AVB cannot
A PVB has a spring-loaded check valve in addition to its vacuum breaker and can be installed where downstream pressure may briefly exceed supply pressure. An AVB has no check valve and must never be subject to continuous downstream pressure.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q14A Spill-Resistant Pressure Vacuum Breaker (SRPVB) differs from a standard PVB in which key way?
✓ Correct answer: B. It has a spring-loaded check valve that minimizes discharge from the air inlet during normal pressure fluctuations
An SRPVB includes an elastomeric-loaded check valve that prevents frequent nuisance spilling seen in standard PVBs during normal pressure fluctuations, making it more suitable for indoor or finished applications. Its hazard-rating and installation height requirements remain the same as a standard PVB.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q15What is the minimum air gap distance required between a potable water outlet and the flood-level rim of a fixture, per most plumbing codes?
✓ Correct answer: C. 1 inch or twice the diameter of the supply pipe, whichever is greater
Most plumbing codes (IPC, UPC) require an air gap of at least 1 inch or twice the effective opening of the supply pipe, whichever is greater. This ensures that flood-level water cannot siphon contaminated water back into the supply.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q16An Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) must be installed at least how far above the highest downstream outlet or flood-level rim it protects?
✓ Correct answer: D. At least 6 inches above the flood-level rim of the highest downstream outlet
An AVB must be installed a minimum of 6 inches above the flood-level rim of the highest downstream outlet to ensure the air port remains above any potential flood condition, preserving its ability to admit air and break the siphon.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q17Where should a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) be installed relative to the highest downstream outlet it serves?
✓ Correct answer: A. At least 12 inches above the highest downstream outlet
A PVB must be installed at least 12 inches above the highest downstream outlet or flood-level rim to ensure the air inlet remains above any possible backflow condition. Installing it lower defeats its protective function.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q18A Reduced Pressure Principle (RP) assembly installed in a below-grade vault must meet which critical installation requirement?
✓ Correct answer: B. The assembly must not be subject to flooding, and the relief valve discharge must be above the vault floor with gravity drainage
When an RP assembly is installed in a vault, the vault must have adequate drainage so the relief valve port remains above flood level and can discharge freely. If the vault floods and submerges the relief valve, the assembly loses its protective function and becomes a direct contamination pathway.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q19An Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) must NOT be installed in which situation?
✓ Correct answer: C. Where it will be subjected to continuous pressure for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period
An AVB must not be subject to continuous downstream pressure (more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period) because the internal poppet can stick in the closed position, eliminating its protection. It also cannot be installed downstream of any shut-off valve that would hold it under pressure.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
Q20Per most cross-connection control program standards, what is the minimum clearance required below an RP assembly to allow for testing and maintenance?
✓ Correct answer: D. 12 inches (or more for larger assemblies as specified by the manufacturer)
Most authorities require at least 12 inches of clearance below an RP assembly (measured to the floor or nearest obstruction) to allow a tester to connect test gauges and operate test cocks. Larger assemblies may require more clearance per the manufacturer's specifications.
Topic: Backflow & Cross-Connection
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