Why Turlock will begin disinfecting city water next week, and what residents should know
Turlock will begin chlorination treatment of its drinking water next week.
A city news release Wednesday said the chlorination program to improve water quality will begin May 17.
Staff said the city is not treating the water for any contaminants but is raising the water quality to state-mandated levels.
Chlorination of municipal drinking water is not unusual. It prevents the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms.
“There will be safeguards in place to ensure that the levels of chlorine in the water remain within acceptable limits,” the news release said.
The announcement also included important information for kidney dialysis patients and some pet owners.
Turlock originally planned to start chlorination treatment in August 2021, but the program was postponed.
The city has relied on untreated groundwater for years, but the addition of activated carbon filters to the system requires water disinfection under state rules.
City water customers can expect chlorination on a regular basis because of Turlock’s plan to use treated river water in the coming years.
The city stressed that no health risks are associated with chlorinated drinking water. Small amounts of chlorine will be added over time until reaching the targeted level of safety.
The city news release answered other questions for residents:
What about dialysis patients?
People on kidney dialysis need to check with their healthcare provider. Chlorinated water may not be used with dialysis machines, but dialysis patients can safely drink it.
What is the chlorination process?
Sodium hypochlorate in liquid form will be injected at city wells and storage tanks. Special analyzers equipped with alarms will make sure the chlorine levels stay within acceptable limits.
What about pets and aquariums?
Chlorine can affect fish, shellfish, amphibians and certain reptiles. Residents should ask a pet or supply store about water conditioners or filters to neutralize the chlorine in aquariums.
