Red Seal Gasfitter — Class A Practice Exam

Why must gas line supports be used?

1. To enhance the aesthetic appearance of installations

2. To secure pipes and prevent sagging, which can lead to stress on joints

3. To insulate gas lines from ambient temperatures

4. To ensure that the gas line is waterproof

The correct answer is: To secure pipes and prevent sagging, which can lead to stress on joints

Gas line supports are critical in ensuring the integrity and longevity of gas piping systems. By securing pipes in place, they prevent sagging, which can create undue stress on joints and connections. This stress can lead to potential leaks or failures in the system, which poses significant safety risks. Proper support helps maintain the alignment and stability of the gas lines, ensuring they function correctly without excessive movement. Other aspects, such as appearance, insulation, or waterproofing, play different roles in gas line installations but are not the primary purposes of using supports. Enhancing aesthetics may contribute to the overall look of an installation but does not impact functionality or safety. Insulation targets thermal efficiency but does not address the mechanical needs of the piping system. Ensuring that gas lines are waterproof focuses on preventing moisture ingress, which is unrelated to the mechanical support required to prevent sagging and stress. Therefore, securing pipes and preventing sagging is the main reason for the requirement of gas line supports.