Chlorine Conversion
March 16, 2020
Notice of Routine Preventive Maintenance
April 1, 2020, to May 1, 2020
MOFFAT WATER SUPPLY CUSTOMERS:
As part of our efforts to ensure continuous safe drinking water we supply is the highest quality possible, Moffat Water Supply Corporation will temporarily convert the disinfectant used in the distribution system from chloramine to free chlorine on Wednesday, April 1st, 2020. The treatment will be in effect for approximately four (4) weeks until Friday, May 1st, 2020. During this period, you may experience taste and odor changes associated with this type of temporary disinfectant conversion. The water will remain safe to drink, to use for cooking, to bathe in and for other everyday uses. Further, this process is recognized by the American Water Works Association as a best management practice and is proven to sustain high-quality water, reduce maintenance and extend the overall life of the system.
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 possible organic matter for continued delivery of safe drinking water.
After the chlorine treatment is completed, Moffat Water Supply Corporation will return to its normal method of disinfection. The treatment process will be performed in compliance with all applicable Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regulations. Chloramine, like chlorine, must be removed from the water prior to use in dialysis machines and can be harmful to fish and amphibians. However, proper filters and dechloramination products will address these concerns. Persons currently undergoing dialysis or with a compromised immune system should consult their health care provider prior to the treatment to determine whether the change in disinfection will affect their treatment. Anyone who has a fish tank or pond, including grocery stores and restaurants with lobster tanks and fish containers at bait shops, that uses Moffat Water Supply Corporation water should contact a pet or aquarium professional to determine the need for any adjustments to their aquarium treatment procedures during the free chlorine treatment.
During this period the Operations and Maintenance Department personnel will also be performing flushing activities throughout the distribution system. There may be periods of discolored water that will be temporary. Let your faucets run until the water clears up. Moffat Water Supply Corporation’s primary focus is the quality of water that we provide to our customers. The free chlorine treatment is being performed as a routine maintenance measure.
If you have any questions, contact Damon Boniface, General Manager, for assistance at: 254-986-2457.
