Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department to Temporarily Change Water Disinfection Method
The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department will temporarily switch its drinking water disinfection method from chloramine to free chlorine, effective next week through October 11. While the water remains safe, residents may notice a change in taste or smell.
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, September 22, 2026 —
Miami-Dade County, FL – The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (MDWSD) announced that it will temporarily change its method for disinfecting the public drinking water supply. The switch is scheduled to occur next week and will continue through October 11.
During this period, the department will transition from using chloramine for disinfection to free chlorine. The MDWSD has stated that the water will remain safe for consumption throughout this temporary change. However, residents in the service area may observe noticeable differences in the taste or smell of their tap water.
The reason for this temporary change in disinfection methods was not provided in the announcement. Typically, such changes are part of routine system maintenance, flushing, or operational adjustments necessary to ensure water quality and infrastructure integrity. The department’s communication emphasized that the switch is a standard procedure and that water quality will continue to be monitored closely.
Customers who have specific water needs, such as those who use water for dialysis, or those who keep fish or aquatic pets, are advised by water utilities nationwide to consult with their healthcare provider or an aquatic specialist if they have concerns about changes in water disinfection methods. While MDWSD indicated the water remains safe, individuals with sensitive medical conditions or particular aquatic setups often take extra precautions when disinfection methods are altered.
The department has not provided further details regarding the specific operational activities planned during this temporary conversion to free chlorine. The change is expected to conclude on October 11, at which point the system will revert to its standard chloramine disinfection process. Residents experiencing persistent or unusual water quality issues beyond taste and smell changes are encouraged to contact the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department directly for assistance.
Story summarized from the original created by Isabella Fernandez de Cueto on wsvn.com, see more information here.
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