Why is it important to monitor the age of water in a distribution system?

Monitoring the age of water in a distribution system is crucial for ensuring compliance with quality standards. As water remains stagnant in the system for extended periods, it can undergo chemical and biological changes that may compromise its safety and potability. Factors such as temperature fluctuations, sunlight exposure, and the presence of contaminants can lead to harmful byproducts, bacterial growth, or other adverse effects on water quality. By keeping track of the age of water, water utility managers can implement strategies to maintain water quality, carry out timely flushing of the system, and ensure the delivery of safe drinking water to consumers.

The other considerations, while important in their own right, do not directly address the core issue of maintaining water safety and compliance with health regulations as effectively as monitoring water age does.