Why can dead-end water pipelines develop taste and odour problems?

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water supply system The primary water reservoir of São Paulo, Braz.

Dead-end water pipelines are more susceptible to taste and odour problems primarily because they do not permit water circulation.1

In a standard gridiron pattern, water flows through interconnected loops, which helps maintain freshness. In contrast, dead-end sections lack this continuous movement, leading to water stagnation. When water remains stationary for extended periods within these pipes, it is more likely to develop undesirable tastes and odours.1