Hydronic Heating Maintenance Quiz | Test Your PM Skills

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of regularly adding water treatment chemicals to a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

To prevent corrosion and scale buildup in the system

Answer

To increase the water temperature for faster heating

Answer

To lubricate the pump and other moving parts

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a common component to inspect during preventative maintenance of a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

Air filter

Answer

Expansion tank

Answer

Circulating pump

Answer

Pressure relief valve

Question 3

When inspecting a hydronic system's expansion tank, what should be checked for?

Accepted Answer

Proper air pressure and water level

Answer

The presence of any leaks or cracks

Answer

The compatibility of the tank material with the system's water

Answer

The condition of the tank's insulation

Question 4

What is the main benefit of regularly flushing a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

Removing sediment and debris that can restrict flow and reduce efficiency

Answer

Replacing the system's water with fresh, clean water

Answer

Cleaning the boiler and other heat exchangers

Question 5

Which of these tools is NOT typically used for flushing a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

Pipe wrench

Answer

Flush valve

Answer

Drain valve

Answer

Garden hose

Question 6

What is the recommended frequency for performing a complete system flush on a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

Every 3-5 years

Answer

Annually

Answer

Only when the system experiences problems

Answer

Every 10 years

Question 7

Why is it important to check the pressure relief valve during preventative maintenance?

Accepted Answer

To ensure it can safely vent excess pressure to prevent system damage

Answer

To verify its connection to the expansion tank

Answer

To test its ability to circulate water through the system

Question 8

What is the most common sign that a hydronic heating system may require professional attention?

Accepted Answer

Unusual noises, such as banging or rattling sounds

Answer

Warm pipes in areas of the house that shouldn't be warm

Answer

An increase in water usage

Answer

A slight decrease in heating efficiency

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a preventative maintenance task that homeowners can typically perform themselves?

Accepted Answer

Replacing the boiler's heat exchanger

Answer

Checking the expansion tank's air pressure

Answer

Adding water treatment chemicals

Answer

Flushing the system with a garden hose

Question 10

What is the primary benefit of performing preventative maintenance on a hydronic heating system?

Accepted Answer

Extending the system's lifespan and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs

Answer

Improving the system's heating efficiency

Answer

Reducing energy consumption