Which situation can lead to stale water in storage tanks?

Stale water in storage tanks occurs when water sits idle for an extended period without circulation or replacement. This is especially common in areas of the distribution system where water does not flow regularly, such as dead ends or low-usage lines. When water remains stagnant in these areas, it can lead to problems like bacteria growth, sediment accumulation, and a decline in water quality.

Dead ends in distribution lines contribute significantly to this issue, as they can trap water that is seldom refreshed or used. This lack of movement allows for various undesirable conditions to develop, leading to stale water in storage tanks.

In contrast to this situation, high pump efficiency and operational demand matching supply generally promote consistent water flow and turnover in the system, which helps maintain water quality. Regular flushing of tanks is a proactive maintenance practice that helps prevent water stagnation by ensuring that older water is periodically replaced with fresh water, further mitigating the problem of stale water.