What is referred to as a wet tap?

A wet tap refers to a connection made into a main under pressure, allowing for the addition of a new service line or a connection to an existing one without having to shut down the system. This method is advantageous because it minimizes service disruption and maintains water flow while the work is being done.

Wet taps utilize specialized equipment and techniques to ensure that the existing water main remains intact and operational during the process. This is particularly important in water distribution systems where downtime can affect many customers, making it a preferred method in urban areas or regions with high-demand systems.

In contrast, the other options like temporary service lines, meter reading procedures, and water treatment types do not involve this specific process of connecting to a pressurized main, thus distinguishing wet taps as a distinct and essential practice in water distribution management.