NOTICE: MacDill to flush water system

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Melanie Hutto
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE Fla. --  On April 5, 2016, the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) will begin conducting a water system flush, and temporarily change the disinfection process for the drinking water supply at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

"The FGUA conducts system flushing as part of its prudent utility practice. Flushing will remove sediment from the system that has been in the pipes for a long time," stated Robert Hughes, director of the 6th Civil Engineer Squadron. "Sediment left in the pipes can lead to odor and discoloration in some communities, which occurs as chlorine that is used to treat the water subsides."

According to the FGUA, the temporary changes to the disinfection process are when the water is disinfected with free chlorine rather than combined chlorine/ammonia also known as chloramines. Free chlorine is a stronger, faster-acting disinfectant whereas chloramine is a longer-lasting disinfectant.

This conversion allows the FGUA to perform a water distribution system purge as recommended by the Department of Environmental Protection for water utilities using chloramines as their primary disinfectant.

The temporary change in disinfection will last approximately four weeks, and will end by April 30, 2016.

"During this period you may notice some discoloration and/or cloudiness in your water," said Hughes. "You may also find air pockets in the system. The discoloration and air are harmless."

If discoloration or cloudiness occurs, experts recommend running water through the tap until it runs clear. Some areas may also experience a temporary fluctuation in water pressure or a slight increase in the taste and odor of chlorine. However, this process will not cause adverse health effects.

"The tap water will meet or exceed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection drinking water standards at all times during the conversion process," said Hughes.

Please call the FGUA at (813) 828-3984 with any questions, or visit the FGUA website at www.FGUA.com for additional information on this process.