The pumper should use what type of strainer on the end of the hard intake hose to maximize water removal from a portable tank?

Using a low-level strainer on the end of the hard intake hose when drafting from a portable tank is the best choice for maximizing water removal. This type of strainer is specifically designed to operate effectively at lower water levels in a tank, allowing for more efficient water extraction. The unique design ensures that the strainer can draw water even when the tank level is low, which is crucial in firefighting situations where every drop of water counts.

Additionally, a low-level strainer minimizes the risk of drawing in debris or sediment that might be present at the bottom of a portable tank, thereby ensuring cleaner water for firefighting operations. This operational benefit is important, as contamination can damage the pump and affect the performance of firefighting systems.

In contrast, other types of strainers may not function as effectively in low-water conditions. A high-level strainer is generally used for tanks that have a sufficient water level above it. A standard strainer is less effective when the water level drops, and a self-cleaning strainer, while useful in certain scenarios, may not specifically address the challenge of low water levels in a portable tank as well as a low-level strainer does.