What basic principle does a pilot reservoir system operate on?

A pilot reservoir system operates on the principle that water seeks its own level. This means that in a closed system, water will naturally rise and fall to equalize pressure and maintain stability within the system. This principle is essential for the functionality of pilot reservoir systems in steam applications, as it ensures that the water level within the system remains consistent, allowing for efficient operation and preventing issues such as overheating or inconsistent steam generation.

In contrast, concepts like hot water flowing upwards or steam rising to push water relate more to specific scenarios rather than the fundamental operating principle of the pilot reservoir system itself. Similarly, mentioning pressure building until released is more associated with pressure relief valves or steam systems' operation but does not directly define the basic functioning of a pilot reservoir. Therefore, water seeking its own level is a core tenet that underlies the operation of these systems in maintaining balance and efficiency.