Starting on Monday, October 7, 2024 and continuing thru November 7, 2024, Osceola Water Works will make a temporary change in the disinfectant used in water treatment.
Osceola’s annual switch from chloramines to free chlorine is a common practice in water treatment and OWW goes through the process every fall. Free chlorine is a stronger disinfectant than chloramine, but it cannot be used year-round because it creates byproducts that are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. The use of ammonia with chlorine – chloramines – reduces or eliminates these byproducts and helps Osceola Water Works continue to provide clean and safe drinking water for all residents. This proactive cleansing step, ensures that Osceola Water Works can maintain the best levels of disinfection throughout the water system and eliminate harmful bacteria in the water mains and pipes throughout the city.
Residents may notice a stronger chlorine odor and taste in their tap water due to the change in disinfectants. This change poses no risk to the people of Osceola, but we recommend the testing of any water being added to aquariums or ponds to avoid harming fish or other animals. Pet stores or fish supply stores should have additives to remove free chlorine or chloramine from water used in fish tanks or ponds. Residents who are sensitive to chlorine will want to keep an open container of tap water in the refrigerator to allow the chlorine to naturally dissipate and reduce the strong chlorine taste and smell of the water.
Also In early October, Osceola Water Works will begin fire hydrant flushing. Department employees will open the fire hydrants and allow them to flow freely for a short period of time. This process allows for routine maintenance on the hydrants to ensure viability in case of fire and to clean out sediment that has settled in the water mains. This is a vital process that ensures the safety and quality of the water used by Osceola residents every day.
In the face of the ongoing water challenges, Osceola Water Works staff are working to find ways to capture the flow and utilize as much of the expelled water as possible. Residents may notice a slight discoloration or trace amounts of sediment in their water, but should not be alarmed. If darkened or rusty water comes from your tap, don’t worry – simply let the water run for a few minutes until it runs clear again.
“Osceola Water Works will continue to work hard to meet the needs of the people of Osceola by utilizing safe disinfectants and implementing a hydrant-flushing program,” said Water Works Superintendent Brandon Patterson. “Our staff is dedicated to providing our community access to safe and affordable drinking water.”