Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the flue pipe in a gas system?

1. To connect the gas line to the appliance

2. To distribute hot air indoors

3. To exhaust gases safely outside

4. To prevent drafts from entering

The correct answer is: To exhaust gases safely outside

The primary purpose of the flue pipe in a gas system is to exhaust gases safely outside. When gas appliances, such as heaters or water heaters, operate, they produce combustion gases that can be harmful if allowed to accumulate indoors. The flue pipe is designed to channel these gases, including carbon monoxide and other byproducts of combustion, to the exterior of the building. This function is crucial for ensuring the safety and health of the occupants by preventing the buildup of toxic gases in enclosed spaces. Proper installation and maintenance of the flue pipe are essential to maintain this safety function, as blockages or leaks can lead to dangerous situations. Other options, while related to the gas system, do not pertain directly to the role of the flue pipe. For instance, connecting the gas line to the appliance is the job of the gas supply line, not the flue. Similarly, distributing hot air indoors is a function of ductwork in heating systems, unrelated to the flue's purpose. Preventing drafts involves weatherproofing and insulation strategies, which differ from the exhaust functions served by the flue pipe.