What is the main purpose of an altitude valve in water systems?

The main purpose of an altitude valve in water systems is to control water elevation in an elevated storage tank. This valve is crucial for maintaining the appropriate water level within such tanks, thereby ensuring that there is a sufficient supply of water available for distribution when needed. By managing the height of the water, the altitude valve helps prevent overflows and ensures that there is adequate pressure in the system for effective delivery to consumers.

In addition to its primary function, the altitude valve automatically opens or closes in response to changes in water level, thus maintaining a consistent water height. This function is vital for ensuring that the water supply system operates smoothly and efficiently, particularly during peak usage times or when water demand fluctuates.

Other considerations include how altitude valves interact within the broader system, helping to optimize storage and pressure without requiring manual adjustments. However, each of the other options presented serves different functions within water management systems and does not specifically address the unique role of elevating water levels in storage tanks, which underscores why controlling water elevation is the defining purpose of the altitude valve.