The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will temporarily adjust its water treatment process from March 3 to March 31, 2025, by switching to chlorine-only disinfection. This routine annual change is aimed at maintaining the regional water system and ensuring year-round water quality.
"Safeguarding public health and ensuring safe water is our highest priority," said Zeke Campbell, NTMWD Director of Water Treatment and Conveyance. "Our advanced treatment processes are among the most effective available, providing the communities we serve with safe and reliable drinking water."
NTMWD typically uses a two-step disinfection process, combining chlorine and ammonia to form chloramine, which helps maintain water quality as it travels through pipelines. During the temporary change, ammonia will not be added, leaving only chlorine to disinfect the water. This process helps prepare the pipelines for the summer months, when higher temperatures can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
NTMWD emphasizes that the temporary change will not increase chlorine levels, and the water will remain safe to drink, meeting all state and federal quality standards. Some residents may notice a stronger chlorine smell or taste, which can be minimized by refrigerating water overnight, adding a slice of citrus, or using vitamin C tablets in bathwater.
During this period, communities served by NTMWD may conduct hydrant flushing to help circulate the disinfected water through the system. The agency conducts hundreds of daily water quality tests and provides results online at www.NTMWD.com/water-testing/. Additional information, including fact sheets and frequently asked questions, is available at www.NTMWD.com/SafeWater.
