If you notice something different about the drinking water in our area beginning this week, you want be imagining things.
Here is a Press Release from Texarkana Water Utilities:
Texarkana Water Utilities (TWU) will begin a temporary change to the method of disinfecting our
drinking water beginning July 6 and lasting about 6-8 weeks. The water will remain safe to drink
throughout the process. TWU normally uses chloramine, a mixture of ammonia and chlorine, to
disinfect water. Beginning Wednesday, July 6 and for approximately 6-8 weeks TWU will use
chlorine only, also known as “free chlorine”. The periodic temporary conversion from
chloramine to free chlorine is a widely used preventative maintenance procedure for municipal
water systems in both Texas and Arkansas. TWU previously performed this procedure in 2015,
2018, 2019, and July-August 2021.Over time minerals may attach to pipes and release when there are changes in pressure that
may result in discoloration. Other processes such as nitrification and the growth of biofilm may
also occur in water distribution pipes. The biofilm growth can cause a reduction in the
effectiveness of residual disinfectants over time. The use of free chlorine will help cleanse the
lines, reduce the occurrence of nitrification and biofilm, and ensure that we provide quality water
for the customers served by TWU.Citizens may see more flushing of fire hydrants by TWU staff during this process. Certain water
lines with low flow must be flushed more often to ensure the free chlorinated water is adequately
moving through the water distribution system.Free chlorine is a stronger disinfectant than chloramine. As a result, some water-users may
experience a slight change in the aesthetics of their water during the conversion, including a
noticeable “chlorine odor” and slight discoloration. This should lessen after a couple of weeks
and does not affect the safety of the water supply.TWU encourages kidney dialysis patients to speak with their equipment supplier; different types
of equipment may have varying needs and require adjustments. The processes most aquariums have for removing chloramines from water should be the same with free chlorine and need no adjustments. Even so, fish tank operators are encouraged to confirm that with their equipment supplier. Local pet stores have also been informed of the conversion. TWU will monitor chlorine levels and water-quality standards in the distribution system daily to ensure the safety of the water and that all state and regulatory standards are met.All TWU customers, including residential, retail and wholesale customers, as well as medical
facilities and industrial customers, have been, or will be, mailed a written notice of the temporary
change in disinfection procedures prior to initiating the process.A list of frequently asked questions and answers will be posted on TWU’s website
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Rick Barton, Water Production Manager, or Chris Cagle, Laboratory Supervisor at 903-798-3850.