During well disinfection, why should you open the farthest tap until a chlorine odor is detected?

• A. To purge air from the system
• B. To ensure chlorine reaches the entire distribution system
• C. To vent the well
• D. To check for leaks

Answer: (B)

Opening the farthest tap until you detect a chlorine odor confirms that the disinfectant has circulated to the most distant part of the distribution system. This ensures the entire network has been exposed to chlorine, providing proper contact and a measurable residual throughout the system. It’s not primarily about venting the well or checking for leaks, and while purging air occurs as water moves through the lines, the key purpose of waiting for the odor is to verify that every portion of the piping has been reached by the disinfectant.