Tampa, FL — Residents may notice a different taste or smell coming from their taps starting Monday as the Tampa Water Department temporarily changes its water disinfection process.
The department will switch from monochloramine, a disinfectant made by combining chlorine and ammonia, to chlorine during the temporary treatment period. The change is scheduled to remain in place through October 5.
Officials said the temporary switch is part of a routine treatment process designed to help maintain water quality throughout the city’s water mains and distribution lines.
While the change may be noticeable to some customers, the department emphasized that the water will remain safe to drink and use.
Why Tampa is using chlorine temporarily
The temporary change is intended to support water quality throughout the city’s water system.
Under its usual process, Tampa treats drinking water with monochloramine. For this temporary period, the department will instead use chlorine as the disinfectant.
Residents do not need to take special precautions simply because of the change, according to water officials. However, some people may notice that their tap water has a stronger chlorine smell or a different taste while the treatment process is underway.
The change is scheduled to last for several weeks before the department returns to its regular treatment process.
What residents may notice from their taps
The most noticeable effect for some Tampa customers could be a change in the taste or odor of drinking water.
People who are particularly sensitive to chlorine may notice the difference more than others. Officials said there are several simple steps residents can take if the smell or taste becomes bothersome.
One option is to run the tap for a few minutes before using the water. This can help reduce residual chlorine in the water.
Residents can also fill a pitcher with tap water and allow it to sit for several hours. According to the department, this gives residual chlorine time to dissipate.
Another option is using a carbon filter on faucets or showerheads. Such filters can help reduce chlorine-related taste and odor.
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Water remains safe during the change
Despite the possible difference in smell or taste, Tampa officials say residents can continue using their tap water normally during the temporary treatment period.
The department described the process as a routine water-treatment measure rather than an indication of a water-quality problem.
The temporary switch will remain in effect from Monday through October 5, giving the department time to complete the treatment process across the water system.
Residents who notice a change in their water during this period may therefore be experiencing the effects of the temporary chlorine treatment rather than a problem with the water supply.
Where Tampa residents can get more information
Customers who have questions about the temporary disinfection change can contact City of Tampa Utilities for additional information.
For most residents, the key point is that the temporary switch may make tap water taste or smell different, but officials say it remains safe to drink and use.
Those who are sensitive to chlorine can try running their taps, allowing water to sit in a pitcher, or using a carbon filter to minimize the noticeable effects.
As the temporary treatment period continues, Tampa residents can expect the city’s water system to operate under the chlorine-based disinfection process until the scheduled end date of October 5.
Have you noticed a change in the taste or smell of Tampa tap water? Share your experience in the comments and let us know what you think about the temporary treatment change.
