WASHINGTON, DC - The annual drinking water disinfectant switch from chloramine to chlorine will end Monday, May 2.

This annual change was part of a routine maintenance program to keep the water distribution system in the District of Columbia, Arlington County and Falls Church clean and free of potentially harmful bacteria. A temporary switch to chlorine with system-wide flushing is done to maintain water quality throughout the year. This is standard practice for many water systems that use chloramine during the majority of the year.

The Washington Aqueduct is the organization responsible for treating drinking water for the District of Columbia, Arlington County, and Falls Church, Virginia.

Individuals and business owners who took special precautions to remove chlorine from tap water, such as dialysis centers, medical facilities and aquatic pet owners, should continue to take the same precautions during the return to chloramine. Most methods for removing chlorine from tap water are effective in removing chloramine. Individuals with special health concerns should consult with a health care provider on the use of tap water.

For more information, please contact the appropriate water authority below.

DC Water: 202-612-3440 (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) or 202-612-3400 (24-hour)

Arlington County: 703-228-6570 (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) or 703-228-6555 (24-hour)

Falls Church City: 703-248-5071 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) or 703-248-5044 (24-hour)