Cary changes its water disinfection process impacting drinking water, dialysis machines

CARY, NC (WNCN) – As part of its annual water disinfection change, the City of Cary will add chlorine to its water starting February 25.

The Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility provides drinking water to Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Raleigh-Durham International Airport and the Wake County portion of Research Triangle Park.

Normally the facility uses chloramines, a combination of chlorine and ammonia, for the disinfection process. But the state encourages water treatment facilities that use this disinfection process to clean their systems by switching to chlorine only and then flushing them through hydrants.

This year, the process will run from next Friday until April 13.

The change means people who use city water for kidney dialysis machines, fish tanks or other chlorine-sensitive equipment should be aware that there may be chlorine in the water.

The city said the water will remain potable during this time and no real changes should be noticed.

Some people may notice water discoloration during the rinsing process, but the only real warning encouraged is for people to check their water before washing white clothes, according to a statement.

Cary said running your water for a few minutes should fix the discoloration issue.

Officials also came up with a few methods to improve the taste, should it be affected, and the potential odor during this time:

• Filtering the water using an activated carbon filter;
• Let the water sit for a day or two;
• Boil water for one minute;
• Add a few slices of lemon to a pitcher of water.

People with questions or concerns can contact the City by dialing 311 or (919) 469-4000 outside of the city limits.