Hydronic Heating Troubleshooting Quiz: Test Your Skills

Question 1

While troubleshooting a hydronic heating system, you notice that the boiler is running continuously but the radiators are only lukewarm. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Malfunctioning circulator pump

Answer

Air trapped in the system

Question 2

During troubleshooting, you use a pressure gauge to monitor the pressure in a hydronic system. The gauge reads 15 psi when the boiler is cold and 25 psi when the boiler is hot. What is the probable cause?

Accepted Answer

Expansion tank is too small

Question 3

When troubleshooting a hydronic system with cold spots in some radiators, which action would be most effective in diagnosing the problem?

Accepted Answer

Check for trapped air in the radiators using a bleed valve

Answer

Flush the system with a cleaning solution

Question 4

As part of troubleshooting a hydronic system, you encounter a leaking pipe. What should be your initial action?

Accepted Answer

Isolate the leak and shut off the water supply

Answer

Replace the leaking pipe immediately

Question 5

While troubleshooting a hydronic system, you notice fluctuating boiler temperature. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Faulty thermostat or control system

Answer

Air trapped in the system

Question 6

A hydronic heating system is experiencing a slow, steady leak. The pressure gauge reading remains constant after several hours of operation. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the leak?

Accepted Answer

Pinhole leak in a pipe

Answer

Faulty pressure relief valve

Answer

Clogged air vent

Answer

Damaged expansion tank

Question 7

While troubleshooting a hydronic heating system, you observe that the boiler is cycling on and off frequently. Which of the following is the most likely reason for this behavior?

Accepted Answer

Low water level in the boiler

Answer

Faulty thermostat

Answer

Oversized boiler for the system

Question 8

You are troubleshooting a hydronic heating system that is not producing sufficient heat. The pressure gauge reading is within normal limits, and the boiler is operating correctly. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the problem?

Accepted Answer

Air trapped in the system

Answer

Faulty circulating pump

Answer

Low water temperature setting on the thermostat

Answer

Clogged return pipe

Question 9

A hydronic heating system is making a loud banging noise. The pressure gauge reading is elevated, and the boiler is operating normally. What is the most likely cause of the noise?

Accepted Answer

Water hammer in the pipes

Answer

Faulty circulating pump

Answer

Boiler overheating

Answer

Clogged expansion tank

Question 10

Which of the following tools is essential for measuring the water temperature in a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

Thermometer

Answer

Pressure gauge

Answer

Manometer

Answer

Multimeter

Question 11

A hydronic heating system is experiencing a gradual decrease in pressure. The expansion tank is properly sized and functioning. What is the most likely cause of the pressure drop?

Accepted Answer

Leak in the system

Answer

Clogged filter

Answer

Air in the system

Answer

Faulty pressure relief valve

Question 12

A hydronic heating system is experiencing cold spots in certain rooms. The circulating pump is operating correctly, and the boiler is producing adequate heat. What is the most likely reason for the cold spots?

Accepted Answer

Air trapped in the system

Answer

Clogged radiators

Answer

Oversized boiler for the system

Answer

Faulty thermostat

Question 13

What is the primary purpose of an expansion tank in a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

To accommodate water expansion as it heats up

Answer

To filter impurities from the water

Answer

To regulate water pressure

Question 14

You are troubleshooting a hydronic heating system with a faulty thermostat. The thermostat is not sending a signal to the boiler. What is the most likely cause of the problem?

Accepted Answer

Defective thermostat sensor

Answer

Clogged water filter

Answer

Air in the system

Answer

Faulty circulating pump

Question 15

You are troubleshooting a hydronic heating system that is making a gurgling noise. What is the most likely cause of this noise?

Accepted Answer

Air in the system

Answer

Low water level in the boiler

Answer

Faulty pressure relief valve

Answer

Clogged air vent