Scheduled Return to Chloramine Water Disinfectant
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS – The City of Corpus Christi will be changing back to chloramine disinfectant on Monday, August 1, 2016, after free chlorine has stabilized the water system.
It will take four to five days for the entire water system to change back to chloramines and most residents will notice the smell or taste of chlorine diminish over time. The City urges the following groups to take necessary precautions as the change occurs:
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Dialysis patients confer with dialysis providers to ensure pretreatment has occurred to remove any disinfectant from the water.
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Fish tank owners make sure that chemicals and filters are designed for water that has been treated with chloramines. Consult your pet supply provider to determine a course of action.
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Medical facilities should also determine if additional precautions are required for medical equipment and operations.
City staff continues to closely monitor the situation with water samples taken throughout the City as part of the overall water quality program. A comprehensive list of water quality reports are available on the city website at www.corpuschristiwater.com. For more information contact Water Quality Manager Gabriel Ramirez at (361) 826-1202 or gabrielr@cctexas.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
During a Chloramine Conversion
July 25, 2016
Q. Why is the City of Corpus Christi converting back to chloramine?
A. Converting back to chloramine is intended to benefit customers by reducing the levels of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in the system, while still providing protection from waterborne disease.
Q. How long will it take?
A. Four to five days for the entire water system to change back to chloramines.
Q. Is the water safe?
A. Yes.
Q. What can I expect to notice with the change?
A. Chloramine is expected to improve the taste and smell of the water delivered through the system. You will not likely notice any differences once the entire system is converted.
Q. Is it safe for my pets?
A. Yes, pets can safely drink chloramine-treated water. Fish/aquarium owners should consult your pet supply provider to determine a course of action.
Q. Are there other Texas cities that use chloramines?
A. Yes, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas and Fort Worth have been using chloramines as part of their water treatment process for decades.
Q. When does the change take effect?
A. August 1, 2016.
Q. When will I start seeing this water in my tap?
A. Depending on your location, it may take up to 10 days.
Q. Is free chlorine being considered permanently for a water disinfectant?
A. The City is assessing options for disinfection and water system upgrades.
Q. What has the City done to minimize risk or nitrification?
A. Some process improvements have already been made at the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant (ONSWTP) to improve water quality. City staff is diligently working on physical and process changes at ONSWTP and throughout the distribution system and the staff remains vigilant to ensure water quality is of the highest standard achievable.
