Pembroke Pines tap water may taste or smell different for weeks. What to know

Pembroke Pines is switching to a stronger disinfectant in its water system, with upkeep scheduled to run from Sunday, March 22, through Sunday, April 12.

Residents may notice changes in their tap water’s taste, smell or appearance, but the city says the water will still meet state and federal quality standards during the maintenance period.

FULL STORY: Tap water may be affected by chlorine maintenance, Pembroke Pines officials warn

Here are key takeaways:

• The city will pump free chlorine — a stronger disinfectant than the chloramine normally used — through water mains to remove biofilm, a slimy layer of bacteria, algae and fungi, from pipes.
• Increased chlorine levels aren’t expected to cause adverse health effects, but residents on kidney dialysis or with medical conditions that could be impacted should consult their doctors.
• Pet fish owners should contact their pet supply store about how to dechlorinate water, since marine animals can be sensitive to free chlorine.
• To reduce the chlorine taste at home, officials recommend keeping an open container of drinking water on the counter or in the refrigerator to let the chlorine dissipate.
• Fire hydrant flushing during the same period may cause brief drops in water pressure — no longer than 30 minutes — and short-term cloudy water from stirred-up sediment. Running cold tap water until it clears should fix it.
• The city expects a full return to chloramine starting April 12, with the switchback complete within 24 hours. Residents can call the Utilities Customer Service Department at 954-518-9000 for more information.

This report was produced with the assistance of a proprietary tool powered by artificial intelligence and using our own originally reported, written and published content. It was reviewed and edited by our journalists.