SALISBURY, N.C. — Salisbury-Rowan Utilities Water Plant uses chlorine to disinfect and prevent bacterial growth in drinking water. The smell of chlorine when turning on the tap has led to an increase in calls for concern to the counties' utilities department. 

Jim Amaral is the water resource manager for Salisbury-Rowan Utilities. He says chlorine is used year-round to keep tap water clean and sanitary. He says in summer months, water temperatures rise, and chlorine dissipates faster. By this happening, he says people may notice a chlorine smell when the tap is first turned on. 

“Your chlorine residual is probably slightly lower in the summer than is it in the winter, but you notice it in the summer because of the dissipation, and it gassing off,” Amaral said. 

The odor is harmless, and does not mean that there is too much chlorine in your water. Amaral says the water department is constantly checking chlorine levels to make sure that levels aren’t too high or too low. By pouring a powder substance into the county water, they are able to test chlorine levels by the color that the water turns. 

“The more pink, the more chlorine. The less pink, within our water distribution system, which we have 450 miles of water distribution lines, we are requested, and we want a trace of a residual.” 

By not treating the water appropriately, Amaral says that it could be harmful to those who drink and expose themselves to it. 

“[Water would be susceptible to] disease-causing pathogens. But I assure you, our water is safe and is aesthetically pleasing.” 

Amaral says that for those who are sensitive to the chlorine smell, you can fill a lidded container and sit it in the refrigerator for a few hours. The smell will dissipate and you will have cold drinking water on hot summer days.