Drinking Water Chemical Analysis

Analysis Process

After the water is pumped from the ground, we add a blended phosphate to control interior corrosion of the pipes and also to help sequester iron and manganese which is in the groundwater. We add a small dose of chlorine to the water as a disinfectant to prevent the spread of waterborne disease. Disinfection destroys pathogenic (disease causing) organisms in water. Fluoride is found naturally in water, and we add it to reduce tooth decay. Chlorine also helps in the filtration process for removing iron and manganese at our filter plants.  

The following are average residuals for the chemicals we add to the water:

• Chlorine .2 - .7 ppm (part per million)
• Blended phosphate .4 ppm
• Fluoride .7 ppm

We do routine monitoring for microbiological contaminants by collecting eleven samples every week in various parts of the distribution system. In addition, we monitor the system for chlorine and fluoride by taking daily and biweekly phosphate samples.  Along with these daily and weekly samples, we have quarterly and annual samples required by our regulators.  

See the Latest Annual Drinking Water Chemical Analysis Results (PDF)

After the water is pumped from the ground, if it is not used up prior to reaching the elevated tank, it is stored until it is needed. We have two storage facilities - one elevated tank located in the 1700 block of Water Street, and another in the 300 block of Bliss Avenue - with a combined capacity of 1,750,000 gallons. Our average daily pumpage is 5,300,000.