AWWA JAW68258

Many factors influence decisions about water distribution storage facilities, including cost-effectiveness, terrain, and aesthetics. Water age analysis using sophisticated hydraulic models has identified a consideration that is often overlooked, the storage site. Locating ground-level storage or standpipes on high ground outside the demand area can have a detrimental effect on water quality. In this research, a detailed hydraulic model and extended period simulation were used to analyze four cases with varying parameters, including water level fluctuation and storage facility type and location. A comparison of a standpipe outside the demand area and an elevated tank within the demand area found that the latter reduced water age from 17 to 6 days. A least-cost solution using ground storage or standpipes may have been sufficient in the past, but utility managers today should also weigh such factors as location when planning new storage facilities. Inadequate turnover because of a poor storage location may add up to significant additional costs in the future. Includes 6 references, figures.