What causes higher than normal readings on CV # 1 and CV # 2?

Higher than normal readings on CV # 1 and CV # 2 are most accurately attributed to a leaking outlet valve with flow to the customer. When the outlet valve is not sealing properly, it allows water to flow out even when it shouldn't, leading to increased pressure readings. This situation can create a scenario where backflow preventers are not effectively stopping the backward flow of contaminated water, thus causing the higher pressure readings at the test points.

In a well-functioning system, the pressure at these points should reflect regular operational conditions. A leak at the outlet can disturb these conditions, resulting in abnormal gauge readings. This emphasizes the necessity of checking and maintaining valves and fittings to ensure they are functioning correctly, thereby preventing potential contamination issues in the potable water supply.

Other options, such as the malfunctioning pressure gauge, would not reliably account for consistently high readings. Similarly, a blockage in the system typically results in lower pressure readings due to restricted flow, not higher. Excessive temperature fluctuations may affect system performance, but they are less likely to cause the specific anomaly observed in CV # 1 and CV # 2 compared to a leaking outlet valve.