Travis County Water District 17 will be temporarily changing the disinfection process for the potable water supply in order to perform maintenance on the distribution system from Oct.1-Nov. 11. 
During this period, a slight change will be made in the water treatment process which allows the distribution system to be maintained as directed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. 
Throughout the year, chloramines, or combined chlorine is added to the water as the primary disinfectant.  During annual maintenance, chlorine is added in an uncombined state commonly referred to as free chlorine.  Free chlorine is somewhat more volatile than combined, providing exceptional ability to react with any residual sediment in the distribution system.  Customers may notice some chlorine taste or odor while the free chlorine is being utilized. 
Customers on dialysis who use a proportioning machine to prepare the dialysate are advised to contact their physician to obtain the appropriate steps to accommodate the change in disinfectants.  Customers who have fish tanks or aquatic species are advised to always test the water they add to the aquatic environment to be sure it is free of any chlorine.  Chemical additives for removing both chlorine and chloramines from water are available at pet and aquarium stores.
During this period, District 17 will also be conducting flushing of the water system allowing various hydrants at several points to flow freely.   This required maintenance will improve the overall quality of the water.
Customers are asked to call the WCID 17 office at 266-1111 with any questions regarding the temporary change in disinfectants.