Study guide: Plumbing Technician
Read these alongside the lessons. The reading list is free, official material from the agencies and code bodies that set the rules. The key terms and practice questions come from each lesson.
Reading list
- ICC free code access (IBC, IRC, IPC, IMC, IECC) Read the model codes free online. Check which edition your state or city adopted.
- NFPA free access (NEC / NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, NFPA 54 and more) Free read-only access to NFPA codes after registering.
- EPA: WaterSense (efficient fixtures)
- CDC: Legionella and building water systems
- OSHA: Trenching and excavation
- OSHA: Hazard communication and Safety Data Sheets
- CDC: Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Apprenticeship.gov: find a registered apprenticeship
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters What the work is, pay, training and job outlook.
Codes are adopted by each state and city, sometimes with changes. Check the edition and rules for where you work on the course page ("Rules where you work").
The Plumbing Profession
Careers, licensing, codes and plumbing safety.
2 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.
Tools, Math and Drawings
Tools of the trade, plumbing math, and reading plumbing drawings and isometrics.
3 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.
Pipe and Fittings
Plastic pipe and PEX, copper, and cast iron and steel: uses and joining.
3 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.
Drain, Waste and Vent Systems
How DWV systems work, traps and venting methods, and sizing, slope and cleanouts.
3 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.
Water Distribution
Supply, pressure and sizing; backflow prevention and water hammer.
2 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.
Fixtures, Valves, Water Heaters and Gas
Fixtures and valves, tank, tankless and heat pump water heaters, and fuel gas basics.
4 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.
Service and Repair
Common service calls, drain cleaning and camera inspection, and leak repair.
3 lessons. Key terms, practice questions and written questions open with a plan. See plans.