Which of the following guidelines is considered to reflect good design practices for shipboard steam heating systems?

Correct Answer: Option A — Provide a dirt pocket and strainer ahead of the steam trap on a unit heater return.

Good engineering practice requires a dirt pocket and strainer ahead of steam traps to prevent scale and debris from fouling the trap mechanism. This ensures reliable condensate removal, prevents water hammer, and maintains the thermal efficiency of the shipboard heating system as required by marine engineering standards.