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Temporary Changes to Drinking Water Disinfectant for Five-Cities Area

Author: Public Works
Date: 10/25/2018 3:35:12 PM

The County of San Luis Obispo, Department of Public Works, wants drinking water customers in Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, Oceano, Avila Beach, and Port San Luis to know that, from October 29 through November 19, 2018, the disinfectant used to treat drinking water will temporarily change from a blended chlorine to a free chlorine.


Most customers will not need to take any precautions as the water remains safe to drink by Federal and State drinking water standards. 

This temporary change is common practice in the water treatment industry and helps ensure drinking water remains free of potentially harmful bacteria. The County uses this practice annually.

Many customers will not detect a change, while others may notice a taste or odor similar to a swimming pool. Customers can minimize or remove chlorine by boiling water, running water through a carbon filter commonly used to purify water, or by filling a container with water and leaving it to vent overnight.

Drinking water customers who have questions or concerns about their water are urged to contact their water supplier at the phone number listed on their water bills.