What is the consequence of low chlorine residuals in water supply?

Low chlorine residuals in a water supply can lead to a higher risk of bacterial growth. Chlorine is commonly used as a disinfectant in water treatment processes because of its ability to kill or inactivate harmful bacteria and pathogens. When the chlorine concentration is low, it may not effectively eliminate these microorganisms, thereby allowing them to proliferate. This poses a significant health risk, as contaminated water can lead to waterborne diseases. Maintaining an appropriate chlorine residual is crucial for ensuring safe drinking water and preventing outbreaks of illness caused by pathogens that thrive in improperly treated water.