RVIA Registered RV Technician Practice Test

The function of a check valve is to allow water to flow in only one direction. This mechanism is designed to prevent backflow, ensuring that fluid only moves in the intended direction through a system. This is particularly important in plumbing systems, where reverse flow can lead to contamination or system malfunctions.

Check valves typically work by using a disc or a flap that opens to allow flow in the desired direction and closes automatically when flow attempts to reverse. This function helps maintain the integrity of the system, whether it’s used in freshwater supply lines or wastewater systems, making them crucial components in various applications, including RV systems.

The other choices focus on functions that are not characteristic of check valves. For example, while some valves may trip when contaminants are detected, this is not a function of a check valve. Likewise, maintaining pressure is typically the role of pressure-relief valves or regulators, not check valves. Finally, check valves do not reverse direction based on water sources; their one-way design is fundamental to their operation.