Did you know that as we head into spring, runoff will occur as the weather improves?

The timing of spring runoff depends on the weather trends and temperature. While we don't know exactly when spring runoff will occur each year, we’re always prepared for it. EPCOR continually adjusts water treatment processes by adding powdered activated carbon, which helps to remove odour-causing compounds. This is then removed by sedimentation. For further information and details from EPCOR, please visit their dedicated Spring Runoff page.

Chlorine addition to treated water is slightly increased during the treatment process to treat any organics during spring runoff. Resident may smell or taste more chlorine than usual during this time. Chlorine levels are monitored daily by Beaumont’s water and wastewater department, to ensure concentrations are within federal guidelines.

Easy tips to neutralize odour and taste

During spring runoff, if you are experiencing slight odours and taste in your water, there are a few things we recommend:

• Run the cold water tap for 5 minutes (or until the water feels cold) in the morning and any other time when the water hasn't been used in 6 or more hours.
• Adding lemon or lime slices to your water is a great way to neutralize any odour along with store-bought carbon filters.
• If you're using a device to filter your tap water, remember to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for replacing and maintaining the filter cartridges.
• Fill a jug of fresh drinking water and keep it in the fridge overnight. Much of the chlorine will dissipate from the water.

Check out how you can further help monitor/maintain safe and clean drinking water in your home today!