Have you ever wondered why at times, water can have an unpleasant odor, taste or appearance?  Over the next three newsletters, we will address odor, taste and appearance that you may experience at your tap. These aesthetic characteristics usually do not pose a public health threat but may be noticed. 

One of the odors that can occur in drinking water is a chlorinous or “swimming pool” odor.

Chlorine in drinking water is not harmful, but some people are more sensitive to the taste and smell of chlorine than others. Chlorine is essential to protect public health and is therefore added to drinking water at the final stage of treatment.  This is done in order to kill any harmful germs that may be present.

We try and keep chlorine levels as low as possible while still keeping our supplies safe. Chlorine concentrations can vary throughout the day and throughout the seasons.

The taste of chlorine can be reduced in water by filling a jug or glass container, covering it and allowing the water to stand in the fridge until needed. You might also consider using a home treatment device such as a water filter. Generally these are not necessary, but some customers like to use them.

If you have any questions regarding this article or any other water topic, please contact Dan McDougal, Water Quality Coordinator, at 801-968-9081. Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District.