Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department to temporarily change its water disinfection method for two weeks beginning Sept. 9

To support Miami-Dade County’s ongoing delivery of safe, reliable drinking water, the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) has scheduled its annual chlorine conversion from September 9 through September 22.

For more than 30 years, WASD has partnered annually with the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County and the Miami-Dade Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) to schedule the chlorine conversion, which is when the department temporarily changes the method used to disinfect the drinking water supply at its water treatment plants.

Specifically, free chlorine, instead of the standard combined chlorine (chloramine), will be used during the treatment process. Free chlorine is considered an effective method of cleansing water distribution systems. 

At times during this two-week period, some customers may notice a chlorine taste or smell. This temporary condition will not cause any adverse health effects. However, dialysis patients may want to contact their doctor, and the owners of tropical fish, managers of restaurants and stores with fish holding tanks are encouraged to seek advice from aquarium maintenance professionals.

Department employees will be seen flushing water lines throughout the County during this period to ensure that the entire distribution system is included. As a result, there may be intermittent, brief periods of lower-than-normal water pressure or instances of cloudy water. If you notice cloudy water, let the water run for three to five minutes until the water runs clear. This temporary, cosmetic issue does not impact water quality and is necessary to support WASD’s daily commitment to deliver safe, reliable drinking water year-round.

Should you have questions about water quality, you can call the Department’s Laboratory Division. Customers who live north of Southwest Eighth Street should call 786-552-4738. Those living south of SW 8th Street should call 786-552-4181.

It is the priority of the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department to provide safe, reliable service to its customers. For additional information about Department services and programs, visit the WASD website.