What is the first step in preparing water for disinfection?

The first step in preparing water for disinfection is pretreatment. This stage is crucial because it involves the removal of larger particles, sediments, and other impurities from the water before any disinfection process is applied. By ensuring that the water is adequately pretreated, the effectiveness of subsequent disinfection methods, such as ozonation or chlorination, is significantly enhanced.

Pretreatment helps to minimize the load of contaminants which can interfere with disinfection processes, thereby improving the overall quality of the treated water. If pretreatment is overlooked, it can lead to ineffective disinfection and a higher risk of pathogens surviving in the water supply. Thus, establishing a solid foundation of pretreatment is essential for achieving safe and reliable disinfection results.