A One Month Change in Tyler’s Water Disinfectant Process

TYLER – Starting Monday, Tyler began converting its water disinfection process to free chlorine for a period ending November 19th. The city uses a combination of free chlorine and ammonia to disinfect its drinking water supply prior to customer distribution. It is standard industry practice to periodically convert back to free chlorine to improve and maintain the highest water quality standards. Generally, there are no noticeable changes in water quality as a result of this temporary conversion. If you should experience a discoloration, temporarily flush faucets, tubs and toilets, until the water has cleared. Clothing should not be washed during times of discoloration to reduce the possibility of staining. Prior to washing clothing, customers may want to run a little water in a bathtub to check for discoloration. Periodic pressure drops may also be experienced due to the City’s extensive flushing efforts. Noticeable water quality changes associated with conversions are normally short lived and are not public health risks.

Customers can safely consume and use their drinking water as normal during the conversion period. However, dialysis patients should consult with their physicians prior to the conversion to ascertain whether pretreatment adjustments are necessary for their dialysis equipment. Most dialysis equipment has already been outfitted with charcoal filters that remove free chlorine and chloramines; however, customers should check with their doctor as a precautionary measure. The City of Tyler has notified local hospitals and dialysis clinics in advance so that they can implement process changes if necessary.

Those conditioning water for fish or aquariums may also need to make changes to their water pre-treatment process.