Recommended Language for Temporary Disinfectant Conversion
From Chloramine to Free Chlorine
The City of Marlin public water system, (PWS) ID 0730002, will temporarily convert the disinfectant used in the distribution system from chloramine to free chlorine. The conversion will begin on November 1st and continue through November the 30th. 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 impact 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 improve the quality of your water overall.
The City of Marlin has chosen to implement a temporary disinfectant conversion to free chlorine based on the following:
Due to water age in the towers and the number of leaks we tend to have, our system is more susceptible to feed the growth of organic matter in the distribution system. This is a great tool, and highly recommended by the EPA and TCEQ, to improve water quality. This is why we try to do this twice a year. We consider this to be a deep clean. We hope to do this again after the winter months right before the temperatures begin to rise again. There will also be a lot more hydrant flushing in November. So don’t be alarmed if you see a lot of running water on the streets. Note: Our current condition with manganese and iron may cause brown water at this time as well. There is no health concern with consuming brown water as it is safe to drink, however the conversion alone may cause taste and odor issues so you may want to cook with store bought water if it effects your area. There is no need to boil your water during this time.
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 ____Water Treatment Staff________ at
_______254-883-3371_________.