Chlorine November 12th

Free Chlorine Nov 12

On November 12th, the Oakmont Water Authority will revert to free chlorine treatment from summer chloramine treatment. Free chlorine is a more effective disinfectant than chloramines and is used during the cooler months to prevent a degradation of water quality called nitrification which can occur if chloramines are used for an extended period of time. 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. The Oakmont Water Authority will remain on free chlorine treatment from November 12th through March-April; the exact date chloramine 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.