UNION COUNTY — As part its annual pipeline maintenance program, New Jersey American Water will temporarily change the water treatment process at its Raritan-Millstone Water Treatment Plant in Bridgewater and at its Canal Road Water Treatment Plant in Somerset from a chloramine –a combination of ammonia and chlorine — to free chlorine.
The change will begin on Jan. 21, and last through March. During this time period, customers may notice an increase in the taste and smell of chlorine in their water. This is normal and will only be temporary until the system maintenance is complete. New Jersey American Water will continuously monitor water quality to ensure that it meets or exceeds federal and state drinking water standards.
The temporary treatment change applies to New Jersey American Water customers in the following Union County communities:
Clark, Cranford, Elizabeth, Fanwood, Garwood, Hillside, Kenilworth, Linden, Mountainside, Plainfield, Roselle, Roselle Park, Scotch Plains, Union, and Westfield.
During the change, customers’ water will continue to meet or exceed state and federal standards, however some may not prefer the taste of chlorine: Here are some helpful tips to remove the taste of chlorine:
· Place water in a glass container in the refrigerator overnight uncovered. This will allow the chlorine to dissipate at a faster pace.
· Bring your water to a rolling boil for five minutes and allow the water to cool. This should reduce the chlorine taste and smell in the water.
· Add a lemon slice or a few drops of lemon juice to a glass of drinking water.
For more information visit http://www.amwater.com/alerts/alert17292.html