Chatham County will temporarily stop adding ammonia to its water-treatment disinfection process from Jan. 15 to Feb. 15, affecting water supplied to the northeast and southeast parts of the county.
The water will still be safe for everyday use, including drinking and cooking, but some special customers are advised to take precautions. Customers with kidney dialysis and those who keep fish in ponds or tanks filled with county water should treat the water to remove chlorine or use alternative water sources. In addition, customers who pre-treat county water using filters or softeners should be aware of the temporary change and consult the manufacturer of their equipment for recommendations.
The utilities department will also flush the water distribution system during this period of time, which could result in minor discoloration of water. Customers should be cautious while laundering light-colored items during this period.
The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources requires all water systems using “chloramination†treatment to stop the addition of ammonia for a one-month period each year.
For more information, contact Chatham County Utilities Customer Service at 542-8270.