What is typically monitored during water quality testing in a distribution system?

Monitoring chlorine levels and bacterial presence is essential during water quality testing in a distribution system because these factors directly impact public health and safety. Chlorine is commonly used as a disinfectant in drinking water systems to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Ensuring appropriate chlorine levels is crucial for maintaining adequate disinfection throughout the distribution system.

Additionally, testing for bacterial presence is vital as it helps identify any potential contamination that could lead to waterborne diseases. Regular monitoring of these two parameters ensures that the water delivered to consumers remains safe and meets regulatory standards.

While temperature, water color, and sediment levels can provide some useful information regarding the water quality, they do not play as significant a role in ensuring the safety and potability of drinking water as chlorine and bacterial assessments do.