A hydrant with a large capacity will be connected to which part of the distribution system?

• A. Primary feeder
• B. Secondary feeder
• C. Booster tank
• D. Service line

Answer: (A)

A hydrant with large capacity is connected to the primary feeder because it needs access to the main, high-flow portion of the system. Primary feeders are the largest mains that carry bulk water from the treatment plant to the distribution network, so they can supply the volume and pressure a high-capacity hydrant requires during firefighting. Secondary feeders are smaller branches that serve neighborhoods and can’t reliably provide the same large flow. Booster tanks are storage devices used to boost pressure in certain areas, not the main source for hydrants. Service lines are the small lines to individual customers and are far too limited for large, rapid flows. So, tying the hydrant into the primary feeder ensures adequate flow and pressure.