North Carolina Home Inspector Practice Exam

What is the likely identification of a 2" galvanized pipe protruding from the ground at an older home?

1. Drain pipe

2. Fill pipe for an oil tank

3. Water supply line

4. Waste pipe

The correct answer is: Fill pipe for an oil tank

A 2" galvanized pipe protruding from the ground at an older home is most likely identified as a fill pipe for an oil tank. This is because homes built several decades ago frequently used oil heating systems, and a fill pipe would be used to refill the oil tank, which is often buried underground. The galvanized material is durable and resistant to rust, suitable for outdoor applications, making it a common choice for such installations. In older properties, it’s important to recognize that plumbing configurations may differ significantly from modern standards. While a drain pipe and a waste pipe can also be of galvanized material, they typically do not protrude above ground and serve different functions related to drainage and sewage waste. On the other hand, a water supply line in residential settings is usually larger and doesn't necessarily protrude in such a manner unless there are specific access points or maintenance sections. Hence, based on the characteristics of older homes and typical uses of such piping, identifying the pipe as a fill pipe for an oil tank is logical.