BOYNTON BEACH, FL — The taste and smell of Boynton Beach tap water is about to change for a few weeks, and the city wants residents to know before they notice it.
The Boynton Beach Water Utility will temporarily switch its disinfection process to free chlorination from Thursday, July 9, 2026, through Thursday, July 30, 2026, according to the city. The three-week change is a preventive maintenance step for the city's water distribution system, not a response to a contamination event.
During the flush, residents may notice a slight change in the taste or odor of their tap water. According to the city, the water will continue to meet all federal and state drinking water quality standards throughout the flush period.
Free chlorination is a stronger disinfection method than the city's normal treatment process. Utilities across Florida periodically switch to it for short windows to clear the distribution system and maintain water quality.
For residents bothered by the chlorine taste or smell, the city recommends placing an open container of tap water in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the chlorine dissipate.
Some water users need to take additional steps during the switch. According to the city, people who operate home dialysis machines, keep tropical fish aquariums, or run commercial fish-holding tanks should seek professional guidance during the temporary change. Removing chlorine from water is not the same process as removing chloramine, the city said, and standard treatment methods may not work the same way.
The city's water system will return to its normal disinfection method once the flush period ends on July 30.
Residents with questions can contact the Water Quality Division at 561-742-6964 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Road improvements, drainage projects, utility upgrades, and public works investments affect daily life across Boynton Beach. Stay updated through Boca Post’s Boynton Beach Government and Development coverage.
