Iowa to change disinfectant used for water treatment in Quad cities this month

American Water unit in the state of Iowa will temporarily change its water treatment process in the Quad Cities of the state from today as part of its regular and ongoing water main flushing program.

Iowa American Water intends to change its disinfection method for water treatment process to include a new form of chlorine with no ammonia content, which is termed as ‘free chlorine’.

The firm will be making a permanent switch for the type of chlorine used within the month.

Iowa American Water operations director Mary Jane Midgett said: "The temporary switch in treatment is designed to make the routine flushing of water mains more effective and ensure we maintain our high quality water standards.

"The flushing program is designed to maintain a high quality of water in the distribution system by flushing or cleaning mineral deposits and sediment from water mains.

"Over time, these sediments can build up in water mains causing discoloured water and/or restricted flows."

The new disinfectant type is likely to affect the taste and odour of the tap water used in the state, but will continue to meet the state and federal water quality regulations.

This treatment change is being done simultaneously with Iowa American Water’s routine water main flushing program which will be continuing during the fall season.

Customers might experience drop in water pressure or discolouration when the flushing process is to be conducted nearby. The effect, however, will only be temporary, Iowa American Water informed.