What tool is used to check water flow from a hydrant in a distribution system?

The correct tool used to check water flow from a hydrant in a distribution system is a pitot gauge. This device is specifically designed to measure the velocity of water flow through a hydrant by detecting the pressure differential created by the flow. When water flows through the nozzle of a fire hydrant, the pitot gauge measures the static pressure, allowing operators to calculate the flow rate based on that measurement.

Using a pitot gauge is particularly effective in fire hydrant testing because it provides a means to evaluate how much water can be supplied in an emergency situation. By knowing the flow, firefighting teams can better understand the available resources and strategize their approach to fire suppression.

Other tools, such as flow meters, pressure gauges, and water level sensors, serve different purposes within water distribution systems. Flow meters measure the amount of water flowing through a specific section of the system over time, which is useful for monitoring overall system performance but not ideal for the specific measurement needed directly from a hydrant. Pressure gauges measure the pressure in the system but do not directly indicate flow rates. Water level sensors monitor the level of water in tanks or reservoirs and do not relate to flow measurement from hydrants. Each of these tools has its own role but does not substitute