Temporary Change of Disinfecting Texarkana Water Coming

Most of you may have already heard about this by now but just a reminder that Texarkana Water Utilities will begin a temporary change to the method of disinfecting our drinking water beginning September 16, 2024, and lasting about 4 weeks.

According to a press release, the water will remain safe to drink throughout the process.  TWU normally uses chloramine, a mixture of ammonia and chlorine, to disinfect water.  Beginning Sunday, September 15, 2024, and for approximately 4 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.

The use of free chlorine will help cleanse the lines, reduce the occurrence of nitrification and biofilm, and ensure that they provide quality water for the customers served. 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.

Texarkana Water Utilities encourages kidney dialysis patients to speak with their equipment supplier; different types of equipment may have varying needs and require adjustments. In addition, 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. 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.

If you have any further questions, please visit the Texarkana Water Utilities website.