Which of the following is a common problem found in plumbing and pumps?

Air lock is a common problem encountered in plumbing and pumps, typically due to the presence of trapped air within a piping system. When air becomes trapped, it can prevent the normal flow of water, leading to ineffective pumping and potential interruptions in service. Air locks can occur in various scenarios such as during the filling of systems, when there are high points in the piping where air can accumulate, or if a pump has been drained for maintenance and not properly re-filled.

In plumbing systems, air locks can lead to reduced water pressure and flow, making it crucial for operators to be aware of how to identify and resolve this issue. Proper venting of the system and ensuring that pumps are properly primed are effective solutions to prevent air locks from occurring.

Understanding how air locks develop and their impact on system performance is vital for operators to maintain efficient operation of water distribution systems. This knowledge helps in troubleshooting and implementing corrective action when necessary, ensuring a continuous and reliable supply of drinking water.