Semiannual switch to chlorine disinfection improves water quality

• Semiannual water system maintenance project begins Monday, Sept. 25
• Routine switch from chloramine to chlorine improves water quality.
• During the project, water will continue to meet all federal and state standards.

The method of water treatment for Pinellas County and its wholesale customers will be temporarily changed from chloramine to chlorine disinfection between Monday, Sept. 25, and Saturday, Oct. 14. Customers may notice a slight difference in the taste and/or odor during this temporary change but will not experience low pressure or a disruption of service.

The semiannual disinfection program is designed to maintain distribution system water quality and minimize the potential for any future problems. There have been no indications of significant bacteriological contamination problems in the system. The water will continue to meet all federal and state standards for safe drinking water. Pinellas County Utilities water customers will benefit from this program, as well as customers in the cities of Clearwater, Pinellas Park and Safety Harbor.

Kidney dialysis patients should not be impacted but should contact their dialysis care provider for more information about chlorine disinfection and how it affects their treatment. Fish owners should not be affected if they already have a system to remove chloramines but should contact local pet suppliers with any questions.

Chlorine was used as the primary disinfectant in the water for more than 50 years before 2002. Pinellas County switched to chloramine in 2002 to ensure compliance with Environmental Protection Agency standards. Many communities using chloramine convert back to chlorine for short periods to maintain system water quality.

For more information, please visit pinellas.gov/utilities or contact Pinellas County Utilities Business & Customer Services at (727) 464-4000.