Which factor can lead to reduced pressure in a water distribution system?

Increased demand for water is a significant factor that can lead to reduced pressure in a water distribution system. When the demand for water surpasses the capacity of the system to deliver it, pressure can drop. This often occurs during peak usage times, such as in the morning when many households may be using water simultaneously for showers, cooking, and other activities. In such cases, if the water supply cannot match the demand, it can lead to a situation where not enough pressure is available to supply water to all parts of the distribution system effectively.

On the other hand, regular maintenance of pipelines, upgrades to infrastructure, and more efficient treatment processes typically enhance the performance of a water distribution system. Regular maintenance helps identify leaks and blockages that could negatively affect pressure, upgrades to infrastructure increase the overall capacity and reliability of the system, and more efficient treatment processes ensure that the water is delivered adequately and effectively without unnecessary losses, thereby contributing to sustained water pressure.