Water Distribution Grade 1 Certification Practice Exam

What is an advantage of performing a "wet tap"?

1. Increased water pressure

2. No need to turn off the water line

3. Safer installation process

4. Reduced installation cost

The correct answer is: No need to turn off the water line

A wet tap, also known as a live tap, allows for the connection of a new service line to an existing pressurized water main without the need to shut down or disrupt the water supply. This process is beneficial in maintaining service continuity, especially in systems where water is critical and cannot be turned off, such as in hospitals, firefighting systems, or densely populated areas. By performing a wet tap, utilities can avoid service interruption to customers, which enhances customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. The installation of new connections or maintenance can proceed smoothly, ensuring that the existing water demand is met without any downtime. Other options, while they may have their merits in different contexts, do not capture the primary benefit of a wet tap. For instance, increased water pressure is not a direct advantage of this method. While safety can be a concern in installation, a wet tap does not necessarily make the process safer than other methods. Lastly, regarding costs, wet taps can sometimes be more expensive due to the specialized equipment and expertise required, which might not lead to reduced installation costs.