What is a common effect of excessive water demands on a distribution system?

Excessive water demands on a distribution system can lead to the potential for service interruption. This occurs when the demand for water exceeds the system's capacity to deliver it. As a result, supply shortages may arise, especially during peak usage times or in situations where the infrastructure is not adequately designed or maintained to handle such high levels of demand. This can manifest as reduced water pressure, slower flow rates, or even complete service outages in certain areas when the system is unable to meet consumer needs.

The other choices reflect concerns that may arise under specific circumstances, such as bacterial growth when water stands stagnant due to low flow, or changes in water taste quality influenced by various factors, but they do not capture the immediate and significant risk posed by excessive demand in a distribution system like potential service interruptions do.