Backflow Prevention Practice Exam

Plumbing codes define hot water as above _____?

1. 100 degrees F (38 degrees C)

2. 110 degrees F (43 degrees C)

3. 140 degrees F (60 degrees C)

4. 210 degrees F (99 degrees C)

The correct answer is: 110 degrees F (43 degrees C)

Hot water is generally defined in plumbing codes as water temperature above 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius). This definition is important for establishing safety standards and preventing scalding injuries. Water at temperatures below this threshold is often considered warm, which may not provide adequate sanitation for specific hygiene tasks or effective thermal treatment in various plumbing applications. Additionally, the definition aligns with safety practices in plumbing and public health considerations. It's typically recognized that temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit can pose a risk of burns or scalding, especially for vulnerable populations like children or the elderly. Therefore, plumbing codes emphasize this temperature to safeguard against such hazards, while also promoting the effectiveness of hot water for disinfection and cleaning purposes. The other temperature options, while relevant in other contexts, do not align with the commonly accepted threshold defined by plumbing codes.