Iowa American Water Plans Treatment Change and Water Main Flushing in the Iowa Quad Cities

Iowa American Water will adjust its treatment process in the Iowa Quad Cities beginning on Feb. 18 as part of its regular, ongoing water main flushing program. The company plans to switch its disinfection method to a form of chlorine known as “free chlorine” which does not contain ammonia.

Chlorine is commonly used in public water systems as a disinfectant and is monitored closely by our water quality experts to ensure optimum levels are present. However, due to the change in the type of chlorine, customers who are sensitive to chlorine may experience a more noticeable chlorine taste or odor in their tap water. There is no reason for concern as the water will continue to meet all state and federal water quality regulations. These aesthetic differences in the water are due to the switch in chlorine type only.

Customers with fish aquariums should take note of this temporary treatment change and whether or not it could impact their aquarium water, so they are able to take any necessary precautions.

The treatment change is being done in conjunction with the company’s annual water main flushing program which will be ongoing this spring. Crews will flush the distribution system from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. during the work week.

“The temporary switch in treatment is designed to make the routine flushing of water mains more effective and ensure we maintain our high quality water standards,” said Mary Jane Midgett, Director of Operations at Iowa American Water. “The flushing program is designed to maintain a high quality of water in the distribution system by flushing or cleaning mineral deposits and sediment from water mains. Over time, these sediments can build up in water mains causing discolored water and/or restricted flows,” she added.

While no interruptions in water service will occur as a result of the work, Iowa American Water advises that when crews are flushing nearby, customers may experience a drop in water pressure or some discoloration of their water. Iowa American Water recommends that any customers experiencing discolored water let their cold water run to clear before using it again and refrain from doing laundry during that time. Any water discoloration or low pressure problems should last only a short period of time. If problems persist, notify Iowa American Water’s customer service line toll free 24-hours-a-day at 1-866-641-2108.

The water main and hydrant flushing will be performed by Iowa American Water crews who will be working out of utility trucks labeled with the company logo. All employees will also have photo ID badges.

Iowa American Water, a subsidiary of American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water services to approximately 195,000 people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs approximately 6,600 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 14 million people in more than 40 states and parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.