Rhode Island Journeyman Plumber Practice Exam

Which of the following plumbing fixtures typically requires the highest hydraulic load?

1. Kitchen sink

2. Commercial dishwasher

3. Laundry machine

4. Bathroom faucet

The correct answer is: Commercial dishwasher

A commercial dishwasher typically requires the highest hydraulic load among the listed plumbing fixtures due to its operational demands. Commercial dishwashers are designed to handle large volumes of dishes and utensils within a short timeframe, necessitating a significant and consistent flow of water to ensure efficient cleaning. These appliances often operate at higher temperatures and pressure levels compared to other fixtures, which increases the water supply needed during washing cycles. Additionally, the design of commercial kitchens often dictates that dishwashers can be used at maximum capacity for prolonged periods, further necessitating a robust water supply to maintain operational efficiency. In contrast, while kitchen sinks, laundry machines, and bathroom faucets have their own water requirements, they do not generally approach the high demands of a commercial dishwasher in terms of hydraulic load. The kitchen sink and bathroom faucets primarily deal with lower volumes of water for everyday tasks, and the laundry machine, while significant, typically does not match the on-demand, intensive use seen in commercial dishwashing scenarios.