The process of combining chlorine and ammonia for the purpose of disinfecting drinking water is known as chloramination, a process the County has been using since 1997. At least one (1) time per year, as required by the State of North Carolina, all water systems utilizing chloramination for drinking water disinfection shall discontinue the addition of ammonia and convert to free chlorine, a process known as chlorination, throughout their distribution system.
Beginning on or about Sunday, June 15, 2003 the County will discontinue the addition of ammonia as part of their disinfection process and will convert to chlorination. Then, on or about Thursday, July 24, 2003 the County will convert back to chloramination.
The County, along with the towns and other utilities that purchase water from the County, will be flushing water lines throughout the distribution system. The County will be flushing their lines at night beginning at 9:00 and ending at approximately 5:30 each morning (Monday through Friday). During this transition period customers may experience a brief period when taste and odors may be noticeable in the water. Please keep in mind though, the taste and odors that may be experienced are merely unpleasant and should pose no health concerns. If the taste and/or odors persist over several days please contact the Public Utilities Department at 253-2860 or 253-2657 or contact your local water provider.
Please be advised that this process change may affect the operation of kidney dialysis equipment and fish aquariums.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this process please contact the County’s Public Utilities Department at 253-2657 or 253-2860 or 253-2655 or your local water provider.
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