Why is conventional water treatment usually required for surface source waters?

Conventional water treatment is specifically designed to address the challenges presented by surface source waters, which often contain various contaminants. The primary reason for implementing this treatment is that it effectively reduces particulates, turbidity, and microbial contamination.

Particulates and turbidity can come from organic and inorganic materials that are washed into surface waters from surrounding land during rainfall or snowmelt. These can interfere with disinfection processes, potentially shielding harmful microorganisms from inactivation. Therefore, removing these contaminants is crucial for ensuring water quality and safety.

Additionally, microbial contamination is a significant concern for surface waters, as these sources are more likely to be exposed to pathogens from animal waste, sewage, or contaminated runoff. Conventional treatment processes typically involve coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration, all of which help significantly lower microbial counts and ensure the water is safe for consumption.

While removal of SOCs (Synthetic Organic Compounds) and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and cost considerations related to disinfection are important, the fundamental function of conventional water treatment in the context of surface water sources is to adequately address particulates, turbidity, and microbial safety.