Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certification Practice Test

When installing horizontal connector pipes, the seams should be placed on which part to help prevent creosote leakage?

1. Bottom

2. Top

3. Side

4. Middle

The correct answer is: Top

Placing the seams of horizontal connector pipes at the top is integral to preventing creosote leakage. This orientation helps to ensure that any condensation, which can accumulate during the cooling of flue gases, does not seep out through the seams. When seams are at the top, they are less likely to come into contact with condensate, reducing the likelihood of leakage. Additionally, this method promotes better drainage of any moisture back into the flue rather than out through the seams. Choosing the incorrect positions for seams can result in serious issues. If seams are placed at the bottom, they would be more susceptible to exposure to condensate, leading to potential leakage and creosote buildup. Keeping seams at the side or middle also has drawbacks, as these configurations do not optimize moisture management in the same way as positioning them at the top. Therefore, placing seams at the top is the best practice to ensure the integrity of the chimney system and to minimize the risk of creosote leaks.