Limiting microbial growth via control of
nutrients has been well studied for heterotrophic
bacteria, but there are few studies
on this approach for control of nitrifiers in
drinking water. The objective of this study
was to investigate the impact of macronutrients,
trace nutrients, and pipe materials on
nitrification activity under simulated premise
plumbing conditions.
Nitrification can vary dramatically in a
distribution system, depending on the pipe
materials used and the nutrients that are present.
Utilities concerned about effects of nitrification
should examine extremes of the distribution
system, including premise plumbing
systems, to characterize the full range of possible
effects. Water suppliers can use the results
to guide sampling and detect parts of the distribution
system that are most susceptible to
growth of nitrifying bacteria. Control of nitrification
is a complex problem with public
health implications, so this knowledge will be
helpful in planning holistic and comprehensive
management of distribution systems.Includes 45 references, tables, figures.