The Tampa Water Department will temporarily change its water disinfection process to chlorine between March 8 and March 29, 2021. During this period, the department will use chlorine instead of chloramine to disinfect the water distributed to all Water Department customers.
This temporary conversion is a standard water system maintenance measure that protects the quality of drinking water by preventing bacteria from occurring in our water distribution system. It also offers a sustainable alternative to losing millions of gallons of drinking water via system flushing. The Water Department will collect and test water samples throughout our service area to assess the effectiveness of the temporary change in disinfection method.
Customers who are sensitive to chlorine may notice a stronger smell or taste of chlorine during this switchover period. To minimize this effect, the Tampa Water Department recommends:
- Run the tap for a few minutes before using.
- 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.
Populations with Special Considerations: Individuals and business owners who already take special steps to remove chloramine from tap water, such as dialysis centers, medical facilities and aquatic pet owners, will want to take the same precautions during this temporary switch to chlorine.
For more information, contact City of Tampa Utilities at (813) 274-8811, Option 2, or visit tampa.gov/ChlorineDisinfection
For additional information, contact:
Chuck Weber, P.E., Water Department Director
Office: (813) 274-8663
Cell: (813) 480-3159
Fax: (813) 231-1325
Email: Chuck.Weber@TampaGov.net