Chloramination reduces the level of certain byproducts of the chlorination process. These byproducts, called Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) and Haloacetic Acids (HAAs), result from the reaction of chlorine with the small amounts of naturally occurring organic substances in drinking water. TTHMs and HAAs are suspected carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) when present at elevated levels and consumed over many years.
By converting to chloramines, the regional partnership:
- reduces the levels of TTHMs and HAAs in drinking water
- complies with more stringent standards implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency
- continues to supply water customers with safe and aesthetically pleasing water.
In addition, during the switch, customers may notice a change in the taste and odor of their drinking water.