What residents should know
Georgetown Water Utility customers may notice chlorine odors and a green or brown tint to the water for brief periods of time starting May 27 or May 28. Concentrations will remain within state and federal drinking water standards, per the release.
Certain groups should take additional precautions during the maintenance period, including:
- Dialysis patients and centers: Water should be properly treated before used in dialysis machines but remains safe for consumption by dialysis patients.
- Fish tanks and aquarium owners: Water will not be safe for fish tank and aquarium usage during the conversion period.
- Pool owners: Pool water should maintain the same chlorine level as water treated with chlorine or chloramines to prevent algae and bacterial growth.
The water system typically uses chloramines for disinfection, which contain chlorine and ammonia. A chlorine rinse removes ammonia from the treatment process and disinfects the water with only chlorine, which is a more effective disinfection than chloramine, per the release.
Ahead of warmer seasons, water authorities conduct annual disinfections to reset the system and free pipes of sediment buildup, per the release.
A quick note
From May 27-June 27, fire hydrants will be flushed to maintain clear water for customers and to ensure the chlorine reaches the whole water system. When flushing hydrants, Georgetown Water Utility officials will divert water onto grassy areas to reuse.
Most water customers will not see a drop in water pressure, per the release. However, if low water pressure persists for more than an hour, customers can report the drop in water pressure to the city's Customer Care team at customercare@georgetowntexas.gov.
