What is the minimum chlorine residual that should be maintained at the point of use in a BEAR water distribution system?

Maintaining a minimum chlorine residual of 1 ppm at the point of use in a BEAR water distribution system is essential for ensuring that the water remains safe for consumption. Chlorine is added to water as a disinfectant to kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms, and the residual level indicates the effectiveness of this disinfection process as the water travels through the distribution system.

Keeping the chlorine residual at 1 ppm at the point of use helps to ensure that there is enough disinfectant present to manage any potential recontamination that may occur after the point of injection, as water flows through the distribution infrastructure. This level is often sufficient to provide ongoing protection against pathogens while not creating any adverse taste or odor that higher levels might cause.

In contrast, maintaining a higher chlorine residual at the point of injection or requiring higher levels at the point of use (like 5 ppm) may be unnecessary and could lead to undesirable flavors in the water. The focus on a lower residual at the point of use ensures a balance between safety and palatability.