Utilities Kingston is notifying residents in the west end of the city that they may taste or smell higher levels of chlorine in drinking water over the next two to three days. The water is safe to use and consume, and there is no public health concern. 

As part of the ongoing expansion of the Point Pleasant Water Treatment Facility, a new connection to the water distribution system was underway when an existing water main valve failed. Utilities Kingston reacted quickly to isolate the problem and consult with public health officials, as well as the Ministry of the Environment.

“While the drinking water remains safe, we have increased chlorine levels as a precautionary measure to ensure your continued safety. There is no public health concern,” says Jim Keech, President and CEO of Utilities Kingston.

Utilities Kingston is increasing the level of chlorine used in the treatment process at the Point Pleasant Water Treatment Facility over a period of up to 24 hours. This will result in customers experiencing an increased taste or odour of chlorine at their tap over the next two to three days, as potable water is distributed through the west end.

Utilities Kingston will provide regular updates on the situation. Repairs to the valve are ongoing. There is a continued assured supply of drinking water and water quality is not affected.

Through a network of 271 kilometres of water mains, the Point Pleasant Water Treatment Facility serves a population of nearly 50,000 west of Little Cataraqui River, Armstrong Road and Sydenham Road. Ontario has strict water quality standards, which Utilities Kingston continually meets and exceeds. There are a series of filtration, treatment, monitoring and backup systems in place to continually supply high-quality drinking water to every home and business within the urban area of Kingston.

Customers can help remove the taste and smell of chlorine by following these suggestions:

• Fill an uncovered glass pitcher with water and place it in the refrigerator. Most of the chlorine will dissipate, plus you’ll conserve water by not running your tap each time you fill a glass.
• Bring your water to a rolling boil for five minutes and allow the water to cool.
• Add a lemon slice or a few drops of lemon juice to a glass of drinking water.
• Use a carbon filter.

If you have any concerns about your utility services, contact the Utilities Kingston 24-hour line at 613-546-1181.