West Florida News

From March 23, 2023 Post.

NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS OF THE DESOTO COUNTY AND LAKE SUZY WATER SERVICE AREAS

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY MODIFICATION TO THE DISINFECTION PROCESS

The Desoto County utility will temporarily change the disinfection process for the potable (drinking) water supply of the Desoto County and Lake Suzy water service areas. From March 15, 2023, through May 14, 2023, the water will be disinfected with free chlorine rather than chlorine combined with ammonia (chloramines). This conversion to free chlorine from chloramines allows the utility to perform a distribution system purge as recommended by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for water utilities using chloramines as their primary disinfectant. The process will start on March 15, 2023.

This temporary change in disinfection does not cause adverse health effects. However, during this period you may experience a change in the taste, odor, and/or color of the water due to the change in treatment.

Customers on Kidney Dialysis who use a proportioning machine to prepare dialysate at home are advised to contact their physician or equipment supplier to obtain the appropriate steps to accommodate the change in water disinfection and to install the proper filtering devices if needed.

Customers who have a fish tank(s) or aquatic species are advised to contact a professional aquarist to ensure proper pretreatment of the water before adding or changing the water in the tank to avoid any problems associated with chlorine.

The utility will flush the water distribution system in conjunction with this change in the process. The flush of the distribution system will allow the free chlorine to move quickly throughout the distribution system. There may be short-term changes to the water quality during flushing including cloudy or discolored water. While this water is safe to drink, there is a possibility that it may possibly discolor clothes that are laundered. Please flush any cloudy or discolored water that may enter the plumbing by running a faucet for several minutes.

During normal business hours, residents may call the Water System Supervisor at 863-491-7500 or email r.reed@desotobocc.com with any questions concerning the temporary change to free chlorine. Desoto County Utilities appreciates the patience and understanding of its residents as it works to further improve the quality of the water for all customers.

Renee Reed

Water System Supervisor Desoto County Utilities

Original source can be found here.