If monochloramine is such an effective disinfectant, why is it not used in every community?

While the public often considers all drinking water to be the same, the local raw water and water distribution conditions determine the best option for each particular community. Both chlorine and monochloramine have their own advantages and disadvantages. Given sufficient contact time, monochloramine is as effective as chlorine in destroying bacteria. While chlorine works more quickly, it does not last as long in the water as monochloramine.

The City is utilizing chloramination, as the water from the aquifer does not require primary treatment. The disinfectant is added to ensure the quality of the water is maintained throughout the distribution system.

Since the 1930s nearly 100 million North Americans have been enjoying drinking water treated with monochloramine including Maui, Boston, San Francisco, Portland, Toronto, Ottawa, Washington D.C., Tampa Bay, Pasco, Fort Lauderdale, Waterloo, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Victoria, Abbotsford and Mission, BC.

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