Arizona Plumbing Practice Exam

A basement has a sump pit that requires a sump pump. Which of the following components should the sump pump be equipped with?

1. Check valve and full open valve

2. Pressure relief valve

3. Flow control valve

4. Isolation valve

The correct answer is: Check valve and full open valve

The sump pump setup in a basement is crucial for ensuring effective drainage and preventing flooding. A check valve and a full open valve are essential components for this system. The check valve prevents backflow, ensuring that water that has been pumped out does not return to the sump pit. This is especially important in situations where the discharge line may slope back towards the pit, as it helps maintain the efficiency of the sump pump by keeping the pumped water away from the pit. The full open valve allows for unrestricted flow through the discharge line, which is necessary for the pump to operate efficiently. By having these two components, the system is more robust, promoting better performance and longevity of the sump pump. While other components like pressure relief valves, flow control valves, and isolation valves have their specific uses, they are not as critical for the basic operation and efficiency of a sump pump in a basement setting. Using a check valve and a full open valve directly addresses the primary concerns of preventing backflow and ensuring efficient water discharge, making them the appropriate choice for this application.