What is the primary function of a water distribution system?

The primary function of a water distribution system is to deliver water from treatment plants to consumers. This process involves transporting treated potable water through a network of pipes, valves, pumps, and storage tanks to ensure that water is available at the necessary pressure and quality for residential, commercial, and industrial use. The effectiveness of this system is crucial for providing a reliable supply of safe drinking water to the community.

While treating water for drinking purposes is essential, it's primarily the role of water treatment facilities rather than the distribution system itself. Storing wastewater before treatment pertains to wastewater management, not water distribution, which focuses on delivering treated water. Measuring water consumption is important for billing and management but is a secondary function that doesn’t define the primary objective of a distribution system. Thus, the focus remains on the distribution of water to end users after it has been treated.