Prep 2026 | Fuel-Oil Piping & Storage System
Study Guide | Verified Practice Questions &
Accurate Answers
FDNY COF P-98 CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS EXAM PREP 2026
Fuel-Oil Piping & Storage System Study Guide
• Document Features: 200 comprehensive practice questions covering all FDNY P-
98 exam topics with detailed EXPERT RATIONALE to ensure mastery of fuel-oil
piping and storage systems regulations
• Study Guidance: Work through questions systematically, review EXPERT
RATIONALE thoroughly for missed items, and repeat challenging sections until you
achieve consistent accuracy before taking the official exam
QUESTION 1
What is the maximum temperature at which fuel oil Grade 2-D can be stored
without degradation concerns?
A) 75°F
B) 85°F
C) 95°F
D) 110°F
E) 120°F
CORRECT ANSWER: B) 85°F
Fuel oil Grade 2-D should be stored at temperatures not exceeding 85°F to prevent
viscosity changes and oxidation. Temperatures above this range can cause fuel
degradation, increased gum formation, and reduced shelf life. Proper storage
temperature maintains fuel quality and system performance.
QUESTION 2
,Which component is primarily responsible for preventing back-flow in a fuel-
oil supply line?
A) Pressure gauge
B) Check valve
C) Relief valve
D) Float switch
E) Strainer basket
CORRECT ANSWER: B) Check valve
A check valve allows fuel to flow in only one direction, preventing back-flow and
siphoning. This is essential in fuel-oil piping systems to ensure fuel moves from the
storage tank to the burner only in the intended direction. Without a check valve,
negative pressure could cause fuel to flow backwards.
QUESTION 3
What is the minimum clearance required from a fuel oil storage tank to a
building foundation?
A) 1 foot
B) 2 feet
C) 3 feet
D) 5 feet
E) 10 feet
CORRECT ANSWER: C) 3 feet
FDNY regulations require a minimum clearance of 3 feet between a fuel oil storage
tank and building foundations to allow for inspection, maintenance, and proper
ventilation. This distance prevents water accumulation, facilitates cleaning, and
ensures accessibility for repairs and monitoring.
,QUESTION 4
Which type of fuel oil is most commonly used in residential heating systems?
A) Grade 1-D
B) Grade 2-D
C) Grade 3-D
D) Grade 4-D
E) Grade 5-D
CORRECT ANSWER: B) Grade 2-D
Grade 2-D is the standard heating fuel for residential and small commercial
properties. It has a viscosity between Grade 1-D (lighter) and Grade 4-D (heavier),
making it ideal for residential burners. Grade 1-D is used for cold climates, while
heavier grades are used for larger commercial installations.
QUESTION 5
What is the primary purpose of a fuel-oil tank vent?
A) To measure fuel level
B) To allow air to enter as fuel is withdrawn
C) To drain water from the tank
D) To prevent overfilling
E) To activate safety shutdowns
CORRECT ANSWER: B) To allow air to enter as fuel is withdrawn
A tank vent allows atmospheric air to enter the storage tank to replace fuel oil as it
is consumed. Without adequate venting, a partial vacuum would form inside the
tank, preventing fuel from flowing to the burner. Vents must be screened to
prevent debris and insects from entering the tank.
, QUESTION 6
Which material is NOT acceptable for fuel-oil piping according to FDNY
standards?
A) Seamless copper tubing
B) Schedule 40 steel pipe
C) Flexible rubber hose
D) Rigid brass tubing
E) Schedule 80 PVC plastic pipe
CORRECT ANSWER: E) Schedule 80 PVC plastic pipe
PVC plastic pipe is not approved for fuel-oil piping systems because fuel oil can
degrade plastic materials and cause deterioration. Approved materials include
seamless copper, steel, brass, and specifically listed flexible hoses rated for fuel oil
service. Plastic piping creates safety and compliance issues.
QUESTION 7
What is the maximum pressure at which fuel oil can be delivered to a
residential burner?
A) 50 PSI
B) 75 PSI
C) 100 PSI
D) 150 PSI
E) 200 PSI
CORRECT ANSWER: B) 75 PSI
Residential fuel-oil burners are designed to operate at pressures not exceeding 75
PSI. Excessive pressure can damage burner components, cause inefficient