Which condition necessitates a boil order?

A boil order is typically implemented when there is a decrease in system pressure. This condition can lead to the infiltration of contaminants into the drinking water system. When the water pressure drops, it can create a vacuum effect that might draw in pollutants from the surrounding environment, such as soil or bacteria. As a precautionary measure, a boil order advises consumers to boil their water before consumption to eliminate potential pathogens that could pose health risks.

Other conditions, such as an increase in water temperature, water acidity, or outdated piping materials, may have implications for water quality, but they do not directly cause the immediate risk that leads to issuing a boil order. An increase in water temperature might affect chemical reactions in the water but does not generally present an immediate health risk that warrants a boil order. Similarly, a decrease in acidity or concerns about old piping could lead to issues like corrosion or leaching, but they do not create the same kind of urgent contamination risk associated with decreased pressure.