What is the primary purpose of an area drain?

The primary purpose of an area drain is to collect surface or stormwater from an open area. Area drains are designed to manage excess water that accumulates in outdoor spaces, such as parking lots, driveways, or around buildings, by directing this runoff into the drainage system. This is particularly important in preventing flooding and maintaining proper drainage in areas prone to heavy rainfall or quick snowmelt.

By effectively channeling stormwater, area drains help to protect surrounding structures and landscapes from water damage. They are typically connected to a network of piping that ultimately leads to a stormwater management system or a natural waterway, ensuring that runoff is properly handled and managed.

In contrast, options related to collecting wastewater or preventing sewer gas are associated with different plumbing systems, such as sanitary drains or plumbing traps, rather than the functionality of an area drain. Therefore, option B accurately captures the role of an area drain in managing stormwater effectively.