Arizona Plumbing Practice Exam

According to building codes, what is the required method to test a newly installed septic tank?

1. Air pressure test

2. Water filled to the flow line

3. Vacuum test

4. Visual inspection

The correct answer is: Water filled to the flow line

The required method to test a newly installed septic tank is to fill it with water up to the flow line. This method is essential because it ensures that the septic tank can hold water, which simulates its operational conditions. By filling the tank to the flow line, you are able to check for leaks and assess the integrity of the tank, verifying that it is capable of withstanding the pressure from the wastewater it will contain during normal operations. Other methods, such as air pressure tests or vacuum tests, are not typically used for septic tanks as they might not accurately represent the conditions the tank will face in actual use. Additionally, while visual inspection can be helpful in identifying apparent issues with the installation, it does not provide a reliable measure of the tank's ability to retain fluids under operational conditions. Therefore, filling the tank provides a definitive assessment of its functionality and ensures compliance with building codes regarding wastewater management.