GRAND ISLE RESIDENTS
During the majority of the year, chloramine is used to maintain a disinfectant residual in the Grand Isle distribution system. For a short period this year, the system will conduct a conversion from chloramine to free chlorine beginning on January 15, 2024. A temporary change to free chlorine is a standard water treatment practice for systems that use chloramine.
When is this switch scheduled?
The temporary switch to free chlorine will occur January 15, 2024 through March 15, 2024. If a longer duration is required, the continued use of free chlorine will be utilized as long as necessary.
What is being done?
Chlorine levels will continue to meet EPA standards and are not a health risk. Although the level of chlorine will remain the same, the type of chlorine will change.
Will chlorine levels be tested during this period?
Jefferson Parish routinely collects and analyzes water samples to monitor for chloramine and chlorine levels throughout Grand Isle. EPA regulates the safe use of chlorine and chloramine.
What should I do?
You do not need to boil your water or take any additional actions. This is not an emergency. Samples analyzed during this time period did not indicate the presence of bacteria in the water.
What can I do if I notice a chlorine taste or smell?
The Jefferson Parish Water Quality Laboratory recommends a few steps:
- Run the cold water tap for five minutes when the water has not been used for several hours.
- Collect and refrigerate cold tap water in an open pitcher. Run the cold water tap for two minutes before filling the pitcher. Within a few hours, the chlorine taste and smell will disappear.
- Water filters can reduce chlorine taste and smell. Use a filter certified to meet National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) standards and remember to replace the filter cartridge as recommended by the manufacturer.
Who should take special precautions during the temporary switch to free chlorine?
Customers who normally take special precautions to remove chloramine from tap water, such as dialysis centers, medical facilities, and aquatic pet owners should continue to take the same precautions during the temporary switch to free chlorine. Most methods at removing chloramine from tap water are effective in removing chlorine.
For more information, please contact the Jefferson Parish Water Department at JPWater@jeffparish.net or the Jefferson Parish Water Quality Laboratory at (504) 838-4300.
