Chloramines April 8th

On April 8th, the Oakmont Water Authority will switch water treatment from free chlorine to chloramines. This change is made by the addition of ammonia at the end of treatment, which when added to chlorinated water forms chloramines. Chloramines last longer in warmer temperatures than free chlorine, allowing us to better maintain appropriate disinfectant residuals throughout our distribution system during the warmer months of the year. Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) are unwanted byproducts of free chlorine and organic material in water which can drastically increase during warmer temperatures. The yearly switch to chloramines allows us to reduce and control the formation of these unwanted byproducts. During the week or two following this switch, you may notice a chemical smell or taste in your water due to the mixing of these disinfectants. In order to minimize this, we increase our flushing rates throughout the distribution system to keep this period of mixed disinfectants as short as possible. It is also important to note that chloraminated water cannot be used for dialysis and is toxic to most aquatic plants and animals. Chloramines must be removed from the water if it is to be used for these purposes. The Oakmont Water Authority will remain on chloramine treatment from April 8th through mid-November; the exact date free chlorine treatment is resumed will be determined based on temperature and water conditions. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this treatment switch, please reach out to our treatment plant or the Purification Supervisor at 412-828-3388.