News Summary
Residents in Round Rock, Georgetown, and Liberty Hill will experience a temporary change in water disinfectant from May 27 to June 27. This process, known as the ‘Free Chlorine Rinse period,’ aims to improve water disinfection and is part of routine maintenance. While the water remains safe to use, residents may notice a chlorine smell and taste due to the removal of ammonia. City officials encourage awareness of possible changes in water appearance and odor during this maintenance period.
Round Rock, TX – Temporary Water Disinfectant Changes Implemented
The water supply in Round Rock, Georgetown, and Liberty Hill is currently undergoing a temporary disinfectant change that will last from May 27 to June 27. This maintenance process, referred to as a “Free Chlorine Rinse period,” is being conducted to enhance the water disinfection process in these areas.
City officials have assured residents that the water remains safe for drinking, bathing, and using for watering plants. Despite the routine maintenance, officials have noted that residents may notice a chlorine smell and taste during this period. This is due to the removal of ammonia from the water treatment process, leading to the exclusive use of chlorine for disinfection purposes.
Details of the Maintenance Process
The maintenance consists of fire hydrant flushing to ensure the clear distribution of chlorine throughout the water system. This flushing process is critical in maintaining effective disinfection capabilities as well as helping to clear any sediment build-up in the pipes.
Officials from Liberty Hill have indicated that the method being implemented is believed to be more effective in overall disinfection than the previous method utilizing chloramine. This routine practice is a standard recommendation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and is carried out annually by water authorities across the nation.
Effects on Residents
During the Free Chlorine Rinse period, residents may observe a slight tint to the water, with occasional green or brown coloration reported from Georgetown. For those sensitive to chlorine odors, recommendations include using carbon filters or allowing the water to sit out for a period of time to help dissipate the chlorine scent before consumption.
This maintenance measure is designed not only to ensure the quality and safety of drinking water but also to optimize the effectiveness of disinfection methods being utilized in the affected communities.
Importance of Routine Maintenance
The annual Free Chlorine Rinse is a recognized approach to improving water quality and is part of the broader effort to provide safe drinking water to residents. By adhering to these scheduled practices, water authorities hope to minimize health risks and improve the experience for users of local water services.
Round Rock, Georgetown, and Liberty Hill officials emphasize the importance of community awareness during this transition. While the presence of chlorine may be noticeable, it is a necessary step to maintaining a safe and reliable water supply. Residents are encouraged to remain informed about the progress of the maintenance and to reach out with any concerns related to their water supply during this time.
As this maintenance period continues, residents can expect updates and information regarding the completion of the Free Chlorine Rinse process and any changes to the water quality thereafter. Community health and safety remain the top priority for local water authorities as they work diligently to uphold high standards of water sanitation and quality.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Georgetown Water Utility to Conduct Chlorine Rinse and Flushing
Georgetown Water Utility Initiates Crucial Maintenance
Additional Resources
- KXAN: Chlorine Taste in Williamson County
- Wikipedia: Chlorine
- Community Impact: Georgetown Water Utility Chlorine Rinse
- Google Search: Water Utility Chlorine Rinse
- FOX 7 Austin: Horseshoe Bay Chlorine Gas Release
- Google Scholar: Chlorine Gas Release
- KVUE: Fish Kill and Water Main Break in Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Main Break
- Community Impact: Round Rock Chlorine Waterline Flush
- Google News: Waterline Flush
