Rhode Island Journeyman Plumber Practice Exam

What is the line in a building that carries water from the roof to the sewer called?

1. Drain line

2. Waste pipe

3. Conductor

4. Vent pipe

The correct answer is: Conductor

The line in a building that carries water from the roof to the sewer is referred to as a conductor. This is a crucial component of a building's drainage system, specifically designed to convey rainwater and any other runoff from the roof into the appropriate drainage system. Conductors are typically installed as downspouts or rainwater leaders that manage water flow effectively, reducing the risk of water damage to the building structure and ensuring proper sanitation. In contrast, drain lines and waste pipes serve different functions. Drain lines can encompass a variety of plumbing uses but are not exclusively intended for rainwater collection, while waste pipes are primarily designed to transport wastewater from drains (like sinks, bathtubs, etc.) rather than capturing runoff from roofs. Vent pipes, on the other hand, serve to equalize pressure in the drainage system and prevent siphoning of water from traps, but they do not carry water themselves. Therefore, conductor is the precise term for the line dedicated to transporting water from the roof to the sewer system.