What is the primary use of an altitude valve in water systems?

The primary use of an altitude valve in water systems is to regulate water levels. This type of valve is specifically designed to maintain the water level in a tank or reservoir at a predetermined height. As water levels rise to a certain point, the altitude valve closes to prevent overflow, and when the water level drops, the valve opens to allow more water into the system. This operation is crucial for ensuring that water supplies are maintained efficiently and safely, preventing both flooding and the risk of running the system too low on water.

While controlling flow rates, monitoring pressures, and adjusting chemical dosing are important functions in water treatment systems, they are not the main purpose of an altitude valve. Flow control typically involves throttle valves or flow meters, pressure monitoring is generally managed by pressure sensors or gauges, and chemical dosing adjustments are handled through specific chemical feed systems. Thus, the altitude valve’s unique role in maintaining water levels is what makes it indispensable in water distribution systems.