WELLINGTON, Kan. (KSNW) — The City of Wellington is temporarily switching from chloramines to free chlorine in order to disinfect the water distribution system and optimize the water quality beginning on Wednesday, Aug. 3.
The City says the switch will last through Aug. 25, or until the water distribution system has been completely flushed to remove any biofilm and bacteria from the pipes, reduce the formation of nitrates and nitrites, and reduce any taste and odor complaints.
According to Culligan Water, Chloramine is a chemical variant of chlorine. It contains ammonia and is generally safe to drink and use around the home. When it is added to water, it is used as a secondary disinfection method to ensure that germs and other pathogens are removed. It has two primary advantages over chlorine: It stays active in the water longer, and it has less of a chlorine taste and odor. While you can drink chlorine daily, it may make it difficult due to both smell and taste.
The City will resume utilizing chloramines after distribution system flushing is completed.
During the maintenance process, Wellington says the water is safe to drink and use as normal. Customers may notice a slight discoloration/cloudiness or chlorine odor, but it will be safe to use. The City does note that water users sensitive to chlorine or chloramine should take normal precautions.
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The City of Wellington says customers may or may not see some of the following during the maintenance process:
- A slight discoloration or cloudiness in the water
- A slight chlorine odor or taste
- Minor fluctuations in water pressures while flushing is occurring
- Minor discoloration in the water due to flushing the system
- Utility crews operating fire hydrants to flush the system
If you do experience discoloration or odor, the City says to flush the water through an outside spigot or tub faucet for a few minutes to clear. By running the water through a spigot or tub faucet, the problem clears faster, and if any debris particles have been stirred by flushing, it will not clog faucet strainers.
Wellington states critical users such as hospitals, dialysis groups, pet/aquatic/pond companies, companies that use water for processing, and other water users sensitive to chloramines or free chlorine should consult with their professionals about their internal treatment procedures.
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The recommendation comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).
After distribution system flushing is completed, Wellington says the water plant will resume disinfection utilizing chloramines.
If you have any concerns or questions, you can call the Water Production Plant during normal business hours at 620-434-5353 or Water Distribution at 620-326-3011.
