Where should the influent be connected in a water treatment system?

The influent should be connected to the influent side of the valve in a water treatment system because this is the entry point where raw water enters the treatment process. Connecting the influent to the correct side ensures that the water flows through the treatment components in the intended direction, allowing for effective filtration, purification, or conditioning.

When the influent is connected to the influent side of the valve, it allows the system to properly treat the incoming water before it is delivered to the desired output or storage. This setup is crucial for the treatment process to function as designed, ensuring optimal water quality.

Connecting the influent to the outlet side of the valve, the drain side, or the bypass valve would disrupt the intended flow and potentially lead to incomplete treatment or contamination, as these areas are designed for water that has already been processed or for maintenance bypasses. Therefore, connecting to the influent side is essential for the proper operation of the water treatment system.