What is a general purpose level used for in plumbing?

A general purpose level in plumbing is an essential tool used primarily for ensuring horizontal or vertical alignments in various applications. While it can provide a rough approximation of grade, its main role is to help plumbers achieve accurate alignment when installing pipes or fixtures.

In practice, this means using the level to ensure that pipes are not only straight but also correctly aligned to allow for proper drainage and functionality. When installing plumbing systems, achieving the correct slope is vital for preventing blockages and ensuring efficient water flow. Although the level may not be as precise as other measuring tools for specific angles or grades, it is highly effective for quick evaluations during installation processes.

This particular use makes it more valuable than other options mentioned, which do not align with the tool's primary purpose in plumbing tasks. For instance, determining angles or precise grades would typically require more specialized equipment, while aligning pipes above or below ground may necessitate other devices or levels designed specifically for those purposes.