Miami-Dade to Temporarily Change Drinking Water Disinfection Method
The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) will temporarily change the method used to disinfect the county’s drinking water from September 21 through October 4, 2026, as part of its annual chlorine conversion process.
During the two-week period, WASD will use free chlorine instead of chloramine, the combined form of chlorine normally used at its water treatment plants. Free chlorine is widely used to clean and maintain water distribution systems and helps support the delivery of safe, reliable drinking water throughout the year.
The annual procedure has been conducted for more than 30 years in partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County and the Miami-Dade Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources.
Some customers may temporarily notice a stronger chlorine taste or smell in their tap water during the conversion. County officials emphasized that the condition is expected and will not cause adverse health effects.
However, patients undergoing dialysis are encouraged to contact their doctor or medical provider for guidance. Owners of tropical fish, as well as restaurants, stores and other businesses with fish-holding tanks, should consult aquarium maintenance professionals to ensure appropriate treatment of the water.
WASD employees will also flush water lines in neighborhoods across Miami-Dade County to make sure the free chlorine reaches the entire distribution system. Residents may see crews releasing water from fire hydrants or other points along the network during the process.
The flushing may cause brief periods of lower-than-normal water pressure or cloudy-looking water. WASD explained that the cloudy appearance is temporary, cosmetic and does not affect water quality.
Residents who notice cloudy water should allow the tap to run for three to five minutes, or until the water becomes clear.
The department said the annual conversion is an important part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining the county’s water infrastructure and delivering high-quality drinking water to residents and businesses.
Customers with questions about water quality may contact WASD’s Laboratory Division. Residents living north of Southwest Eighth Street should call 786-552-4738. Customers living south of Southwest Eighth Street should call 786-552-4181.
WASD reiterated that providing dependable service and high-quality drinking water remains one of the department’s highest priorities.
