City of Hays
The city of Hays will temporarily convert the disinfectant used in the distribution system from chloramine to free chlorine.
The conversion will begin on Tuesday and continue through May 12. During this period, you may experience taste and odor changes associated with this type of temporary disinfectant conversion.
Public water systems are required to properly disinfect their water and maintain an adequate disinfectant residual in the distribution system.
Chloramine, free chlorine combined with ammonia, is widely used as a disinfectant because it persists for longer periods while also limiting the formation of disinfection by-product contaminants.
Prolonged use of chloramine coupled with other factors that can impact water quality, such as high temperatures or reduced usage of water, may result in the growth and/or persistence of organic matter within the pipes of the distribution system, which may hinder the ability to maintain an adequate disinfectant residual.
The Hays Fire Department is conducting its annual testing of all 1,080 hydrants at the same time to rid distribution pipes of this organic matter and improve the quality of your water overall.
Please share this information with all people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly.
If you have questions regarding this matter, please contact the Water Resources Department at 785-628-7380.