What is primarily measured by the unit of inches of water column?

The unit of inches of water column is primarily used to measure gas pressure, which is essential in various applications, including gas distribution systems and appliances. It provides a way to quantify the pressure exerted by a column of water that is equivalent in weight. This measurement is particularly important in the gas industry, as it helps technicians ensure that gas appliances are operating under the correct pressure conditions for safe and efficient use.

Inches of water column can be a precise measurement for low pressures, which are typical in residential gas systems. These measurements are crucial for verifying that appliances receive the appropriate amount of gas to function properly and safely, helping to prevent both under and over-pressure situations.

While air pressure may be measured in similar units, inches of water column is specifically associated with gas pressure in this context. Light intensity and voltage are measured using entirely different units, such as lumens or volts, respectively, making them unrelated to this particular measurement of gas pressure.