Pinellas Customers To Experience Temporary Change In Tap Water

CLEARWATER, FL -- Pinellas County and Clearwater water customers may notice a slight difference in taste and the odor of their tap water Oct. 1-26.

The method of water treatment used by Pinellas County Utilities and the city of Clearwater will be temporarily modified during this time period.

This short-term change from chloramines to chlorine disinfection is a routine maintenance measure designed to maintain system integrity. This is the second of two segments of water maintenance this year; the first segment was in May and June.

Kidney dialysis patients should not be impacted but should contact their dialysis care provider for chlorine treatment information. Fish owners should not be affected if a system already is in place to remove chloramines but should contact local pet suppliers with questions.

This disinfection program is designed to maintain distribution system water quality and minimize the potential for future problems. The water will continue to meet federal and state standards for safe drinking water.

"The annual chlorine maintenance process continues to run smoothly every year with increased cooperation and commitment from our customers," said David Porter, public utilities director. "We thank our customers in advance for their patience as maintenance procedures begin."

Pinellas County Utilities uses chloramines and periodically switches to chlorine for a short period to maintain system water quality. The county switched to chloramines in 2002 to ensure compliance with Environmental Protection Agency standards.

The water quality during this period will be identical to the water quality in Pinellas County for more than 50 years before the use of chlorine was eliminated in 2002.

For more information, click here.

Image via Pinellas County

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