As part of its annual pipeline maintenance program, New Jersey American Water (NJAW) 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 chloramines (a combination of ammonia and chlorine) to free chlorine. The change will begin on February 1, 2015 and last through March. During this period, customers may notice an increase in the taste and smell of chlorine in their water. NJAW will continuously monitor water quality to ensure that it meets or surpasses federal and state drinking water standards. The temporary treatment change applies to customers in numerous NJ towns including Dunellen.
NJAW’s spokesperson Richard Barnes stated that some customers may not prefer the taste of free chlorine when compared to the normal water treatment process. To reduce/remove the taste of chlorine, Barnes suggests “Fill a glass container with water and place it in the refrigerator overnight uncovered. This will allow the chlorine to dissipate and reduce the taste and smell of chlorine in the water. Add a lemon slice or a few drops of lemon juice to a glass of drinking water.” For more information, visit newjerseyamwater.com.