Ready for Weird-Tasting City Water?

Starting March 1, City of Durham water customers can expect altered taste and scent of tap water while the Department of Water Management performs its annual water treatment disinfection changeover process. It lasts through April 15.

The changeover, required by federal and state regulations, isn’t expected to affect safety or water quality. According to a news release: “This annual process involves temporarily switching from the chlorine and ammonia combination ordinarily used to disinfect Durham’s water to chlorine only. City water treatment staff will stop adding ammonia on March 1 and resume its use on April 15. The temporary switch to chlorine only is a precaution measure to ensure the entire water distribution system remains clean.”

Starting March 4 and for about six weeks, the departments Water and Sewer Maintenance Division will flush hydrants across the city to disperse the chlorine throughout the system.

While crews are in our neighborhoods, we may see slight discoloration of tap water. The department urges dialysis patients and aquarium/pond owners to take special precautions to remove traces of ammonia and chlorine from water before use.

Don’t wash white clothing until turning on the tap and waiting for the water to run clear. If discoloration persists, contact the department at (919) 560-4344. If drinking water has a stronger than normal taste or odor, store in refrigerator for later use because chlorine dissipates over time.

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