DELRAY BEACH, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2025) — Delray Beach residents may notice a slight change in the taste or smell of their tap water starting next week.

City officials say Delray Beach will begin routine “chlorine maintenance” of its water distribution system on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, running through Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026. During that period, the City will temporarily switch from using total chloramines to free chlorine at the water treatment plant and throughout the distribution system.

The change is part of scheduled maintenance meant to help clean the water pipes. The City describes chlorine maintenance as a temporary process that distributes free chlorine in place of chloramine to remove biofilms from inside distribution pipes. Officials say it’s a common practice typically performed once or twice a year over a roughly three-week period, and that Delray Beach typically performs it about every six months.

For most households, the biggest difference may be sensory. Free chlorine is a stronger disinfectant than chloramines, and the City says some people may notice a change in taste or smell during the maintenance window. The City says the change does not have adverse health effects.

Still, the City is urging extra caution for certain residents and businesses.

If you use a home dialysis machine, the City says chlorine and chloramines must be removed from water prior to use. The City also warned aquarium owners and businesses that keep fish or shellfish holding tanks — including stores and restaurants — to seek professional advice on how to remove chlorine from tap water during the maintenance period.

The City notes that both chlorine and chloramines can be harmful to saltwater and freshwater fish, reptiles, shellfish, and amphibians that live in water. For aquariums, the City outlined two methods that can be used to remove or neutralize chloramines before adding water: a granular activated carbon filtration system specifically designed to remove chloramines, or a conditioner/additive that contains de-chlorinating chemicals. Those products are available at pet and aquarium supply stores, and the City advises residents and commercial operators to verify which method is best with a pet store or aquatic retailer.

Officials also said residents may see more fire hydrant flushing during the scheduled maintenance period. The City said its team will be flushing hydrants throughout Delray Beach as part of the process, with flushing occurring in predetermined areas around the city. If you notice a hydrant running on your street, the City says it can be a routine part of the free chlorination process.

For residents who are sensitive to the taste or smell of chlorine, the City offered a simple tip: keep an open container of drinking water in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the chlorine to dissipate.

Delray Beach said the water will continue to meet state and federal water quality standards during the maintenance period.

Residents with questions can contact the Utilities Department customer service team at (561) 243-7312, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The City also lists (561) 243-7312 as its contact number for additional information, questions, or concerns.

Source: City of Delray Beach (chlorine maintenance notice)