Some North Texas water customers may notice a change in the taste and odor of their tap water next month as the regional water district temporarily switches from chloramine (chlorine and ammonia) to chlorine-only disinfection.
The North Texas Municipal Water District announced the annual maintenance procedure will run from March 2-30, affecting millions of residents across the region.
The NTMWD serves more than 2.3 million water utility customers across 2,200 square miles in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Kaufman, Rains, Rockwall, and Van Zandt counties.
“Safeguarding public health and ensuring safe water is our highest priority,” Zeke Campbell, NTMWD Director of Water Treatment and Conveyance, said in a news release.
The district emphasizes that the water remains safe to drink throughout the process.
The temporary switch helps prepare water pipes for summer’s higher temperatures, which can increase bacterial growth. During the four-week period, the district suspends adding ammonia to its usual disinfection process and uses chlorine only.
“This routine, temporary adjustment in water disinfectant is essential for maintaining optimal conditions within our pipelines and ensuring year-round water quality,” Campbell said. He noted the practice does not increase chlorine levels.
The EPA recognizes this as standard practice for water systems that use chloramine disinfection. NTMWD has conducted the annual maintenance for over 15 years while maintaining its designation as a Superior Public Water System from Texas regulators.
Residents may notice a stronger chlorine taste and odor during the switch. The district recommends refrigerating water overnight or adding citrus slices to enhance flavor.
For those with skin sensitivities, crushing a 1000 mg Vitamin C tablet and adding it to bath water neutralizes chlorine. Communities may also see crews flushing fire hydrants to move chlorine-treated water through the system more quickly.
The district conducts hundreds of daily water quality tests in its state-certified laboratory. Monthly and annual reports are available at www.NTMWD.com/water-testing/, along with additional resources at www.NTMWD.com/SafeWater.
