The City of Palm Bay Utilities Department will temporarily modify its drinking water treatment process from March 16 through April 13, 2026, as part of routine system maintenance. City officials said the change is necessary to maintain the highest water quality standards for residents. During this period, the department will switch from its usual chloramination process to free chlorination. A city spokesperson confirmed the temporary change is standard practice for maintaining water quality in the region's distribution system.
The chloramination process involves adding ammonia to liquid chlorine during treatment. This creates a more stable disinfectant that lasts longer in water pipes. However, the city must periodically replace this method with free chlorination to prevent the buildup of biofilm and other contaminants in the system. The spokesperson said the switch will not affect the safety of the water but may cause temporary changes in taste or odor for some residents.
Residents who notice a change in taste or smell are advised to flush their plumbing systems by running cold water for several minutes. The city has not identified any health risks associated with the temporary change. Utilities departments across Florida routinely perform similar maintenance to ensure compliance with state and federal water quality regulations.
The maintenance program is expected to last 28 days, ending on April 13. City officials emphasized that the process is part of a scheduled maintenance plan and not an emergency measure. Updates about the program will be posted on the city's website and social media channels. No boil-water advisories or other public health alerts are in effect during this period.