Temporary Disinfectant Conversion from Chloramine to Free Chlorine

August 17, 2023 9:20 am

The Harris County MUD No. 504 public water system, (PWS) ID 1013522, will temporarily convert the disinfectant used in the distribution system from chloramine to free chlorine. The conversion will begin on August 21, 2023, and continue for approximately 4 weeks. While this process will not create a water quality concern, during this period, you may experience taste and odor changes associated with this type of temporary disinfectant conversion.

Public water systems are required to properly disinfect their water and maintain an adequate disinfectant residual in the distribution system. Chloramine, free chlorine combined with ammonia, is widely used as a disinfectant because it persists for long periods while also limiting the formation of disinfection by-product contaminants. Prolonged use of chloramine coupled with other factors that can affect water quality, such as high temperatures or stagnation of water, may result in the growth and/or persistence of organic matter within the pipes of the distribution system, which may hinder the ability to maintain an adequate disinfectant residual. A temporary conversion to free chlorine, partnered with flushing activities, helps to rid distribution pipes of this organic matter and ultimately improve the quality of your water overall.

Harris County MUD No. 504 has chosen to implement a temporary disinfectant conversion to free chlorine based on the following:

In a joint effort with Harris County MUD No. 412 (the water supplying District for Harris County MUD No. 504), a temporary conversion to free chlorine is necessary within the system as preventative maintenance to eliminate bacteria that may be present which can create unwanted taste and odor issues.

Please share this information with all people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (i.e., people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

If you have questions regarding this matter, you may contact
Trina Kilgore, Account Manager, Inframark at 832-338-0329 or by email at Trina.Kilgore@inframark.com.

Facts about Drinking Water Disinfection and the Free Chlorine Conversion Process
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