HOW DOES DRINKING WATER GET TO YOUR TAP?
The Water Distribution System Once the water has been treated to meet all federal, state, and local regulations for drinking water, it is pumped into storage tanks . Storage allows for fluctuations in water usage and holds enough water for emergencies and fire protection. Some of these are ground storage tanks and others may be elevated tanks (water towers). Elevated tanks not only store water, but help to regulate pressure in the system. Pumps then send drinking water into the water distribution system . Pumps provide pressure in the system, usually around 60 to 75 pounds per square inch (psi), allowing water to flow into buildings throughout the community. Note that in Florida, a measurable disinfectant (chlorine or chloramine) must be added to the water just before entering the distribution system. A minimum chlorine residual of 0.2 parts per million or milligrams per liter (mg/L) must be maintained throughout the system - ...