ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the conveyance and distribution of drinking water. Groundwater is generally available in most of the United States; however, the amount available for withdrawal at any particular location is usually limited. Surface water and groundwater supply systems may be comprised of canals, pipes, and other conveyances; pumping plants; distribution reservoirs or tanks to assist in balancing supplies and demands for water and to control pressures; other appurtenances; and treatment works. Along with providing potable water to the household tap, water distribution systems are ordinarily designed to adequately satisfy the water requirements for a combination of domestic, commercial, industrial, and firefighting purposes. Distribution reservoirs and other storage facilities or vessels are in place to provide a sufficient amount of water to average or equalize daily demands on the water supply system. The potable water practitioner may be called upon to troubleshoot water quality problems while water is in storage facilities and distribution systems.
