CITY OF BRENHAM TO CONDUCT WATER SYSTEM MAINTENANCE BEGINNING AUG. 1

  

Starting in August, the City of Brenham will perform its annual temporary conversion of the disinfectant used in the water distribution system.

The city will switch from using chloramine to free chlorine from August 1-30.  Water system officials say the conversion allows the city to perform routine maintenance, sustain clean water and minimize the potential for harmful bacteria.  While they say there are no indications of contamination, this maintenance period will be used to prevent any nitrifying bacteria or biofilm from forming.

The water will remain safe to drink throughout the process, but citizens may notice taste and odor changes, as well as discoloration or cloudiness in the water.  If this happens, they are advised to run water through the tap until it clears.

The public may also notice open fire hydrants throughout the city, which allows for flushing of the system to remove sediment from the pipes and distribute the disinfectant.  Minor pressure fluctuations and small air pockets may occur, as well.

Once the conversion is complete, the city will reintroduce the standard disinfection method, and the system will go back to normal operating conditions.

Customers who use tap water for kidney dialysis at home should reach out to their doctor in case any changes are needed for their procedures.  Those who have aquariums should monitor chlorine residuals.

For questions, contact City of Brenham Water Services Superintendent Jarry Saldivar at 979-337-7434 or jsaldivar@cityofbrenham.org.