The Tampa Water Department will temporarily change its disinfection process from Monday, June 12 through Monday, July 3, 2023, as part of its routine maintenance to preserve drinking water quality. Customers may experience a change in their drinking water's smell, color, and taste during this time.
What will happen: The department will use chlorine instead of chloramine (a mix of ammonia and chlorine) to disinfect its drinking water. This routine and temporary adjustment will help prevent bacteria from developing in water mains and service lines.
Customers with a sensitivity to chlorine: Customers who are sensitive to chlorine can take several steps to minimize the effects of the change, including the following:
- Run the tap for a few minutes before using the water.
- Fill a pitcher of water and let it sit for several hours to allow any residual chlorine to evaporate.
- Consider installing a carbon filter on kitchen/bathroom faucets or shower heads or replacing existing filters with new ones.
This routine change was delayed due to seasonal drought conditions. The Hillsborough River Reservoir is now back to normal levels thanks to recent rains.
Effective Friday, June 9, the Tampa Water Department will stop purchasing water from Tampa Bay Water. The department was buying wholesale water during the drought in order to meet demand.
For more information, contact the City of Tampa Utilities Department at (813) 274-8811 or visit tampa.gov/ChlorineDisinfection.