What are the primary sources for water in an HVAC or plumbing system?

The primary sources for water in an HVAC or plumbing system are municipal water supplies and private wells. Municipal water systems typically offer a reliable and consistent source of water, which is treated and stored before being distributed to homes and businesses. They are designed to meet health and safety standards for potable water, making them a common choice for residential and commercial plumbing needs.

Private wells are another significant source of water, particularly in rural areas where access to municipal water systems is limited. Well water can be used effectively in plumbing systems, provided that it is tested and treated appropriately to ensure it meets safety standards.

In contrast, while rainwater and surface runoff can contribute to water collection in certain systems, they are not as commonly relied upon in traditional HVAC and plumbing applications. Groundwater, while important, is often accessed through wells, thus overlaps with the concept of private wells. Stormwater management is crucial but generally pertains to drainage rather than serving as a direct water source for plumbing. Lastly, vehicular waste and greywater are associated with wastewater systems; while they can be recycled in some contexts, they do not serve as primary sources of fresh water for plumbing and HVAC systems.