PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK
OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Oshkosh residents may temporarily notice an increased smell and/or taste of chlorine in their drinking water.
That’s because the Department of Public Works is replacing the ozone system equipment at Oshkosh’s water filtration plant, and beginning Monday, it will be periodically utilizing chlorine to meet disinfection regulations.
Oshkosh primarily uses ozone to disinfect its water, but the city uses chlorine as a backup for situations like this.
“The ozone is the primary disinfection system to neutralize taste and odor as part of that disinfection system,” explained Oshkosh Assistant Director of Public Works Steve Gohde.
Officials stress the water will still be safe to drink.
“We’re going to stay well within the DNR requirements, safe drinking water requirements, for making sure we’re providing water that is safe for people to drink and will remain safe as it goes through the distribution system,” Gohde said.
But the presence of chlorine is still unsettling for some residents, who are uncertain about the changes in the water, if only temporary.
“I’m definitely concerned about the water supply being tampered with,” said Oshkosh resident Kailyn Kobetic. “I use tap water at home.”
If you’d like to reduce the chlorine smell or taste, consider these steps:
- Utilize a filter, such as an activated carbon filter, to remove residual chlorine
- Pour water into a glass or pitcher and wait 15-20 minutes to evaporate chlorine
- Boil water for 15 minutes to evaporate chlorine
If you have questions regarding this project and the temporary shutdown of the ozone system, contact the Department of Public Works at (920) 236-5065.
For general questions regarding drinking water quality, contact the Water Filtration Plant at (920) 236-5165.
For guidance on toxic levels of chlorine exposure, visit the CDC website.
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