There are three main methods for distributing water: gravity, using pumps, and using pumps with reservoirs. An effective distribution system supplies clean water continuously through durable piping at low maintenance cost while being economical to design, construct, and operate. Gravity systems do not require pumps but cannot supply areas lower than the source. Pump systems can supply higher elevations but have high operational costs and pressure issues. Pump and reservoir systems are most economical by storing water at high demand times and reducing pump use and pressure problems.

1. Water can be distributed by following the method:
 Gravity
 Pump
 Pump and reservoir
General characteristics of water distribution system are:
o Able to supply clean water sufficiently.
o Effective distribution system.
o Piping system is able to supply water continously with
minimum maintenance.
o Materials used in distribution pipe should be durable
and do not give long term side effect to consumers.
o Distribution system should be economical, in terms
of its design, layout and construction.

2.  -This system is used when water treatment
plant is located at higher level than supply
area.

3. Advantages Disdvantages
 Pump is not required  If supplied area is located
lower than water treatment
plant, pressure in the pipe
becomes too high
 Operational cost in terms of
electrical consumption
 Easily damages pipe and
distribution system
 Pump maintenance is low

5.  This system is used when supply area is
located at the same or higher level than
storage tank.
 water is directly pumped to distribution area.

6. Advantages Disadvantages
 Ability to supply water to higher
ground areas
 Water supply is interrupted when
there is interruption in the electricity
supply
 High pressure during low demand
period (at night)and can cause damage
 This system requires control and
frequent maintenance services to
ensure optimum level of water supply
 High operational cost to maintain
pump and distribution system

8.  Some amount of water is pumped to supply
area and remaining is supplied to service
tank,which is located at a higher level than
supply area.
 Water stored in service tank is distributed
during high demand at peak hours.
 during low demand period (at night),water is
stored in service tank to be distributed during
peak hour the following day.

9. Advantages Disadvantages
 Very economical because
pumping process operates at
fixed rates
 No obvious disadvantages
 Pump which operates at
fixed rate is highly efficient
and requires less
maintenance
 Damage in pipe and
distribution system can be
reduced