Seminole County switches water treatment, residents may notice taste change

Seminole County shut down ozone production at the Northwest Water Plant on December 10 to perform maintenance, substituting sodium hypochlorite for the ozone process for the duration of the work. The change was made to maintain the removal of hydrogen sulfide, the compound that can create a rotten egg smell in tap water, while staff complete repairs and upkeep at the plant.

Ozone is the plant's normal tool for knocking down hydrogen sulfide, but the county can achieve the same removal using chlorine in the form of sodium hypochlorite. Using chlorine requires a higher dose than ozone for the same effect, and that increased dosing is likely to produce a modest difference in taste and odor in the treated water. Officials said the effect should be limited to sensory changes, and that no additional household precautions such as boiling were necessary.

Maintenance began on December 10 and was expected to continue throughout the week, with county crews monitoring treatment levels and adjusting chlorine dosing to ensure continued compliance with safety and quality standards. The temporary measure keeps the water free of the sulfur compounds that generate unpleasant odors while technicians complete work on the ozone systems.

For most residents the impact will be limited to noticing a faint chlorine taste or a subtle change in smell. Households with heightened sensitivity to taste or odor may find the difference more noticeable. Do not boil your water, the county advised, and normal uses including drinking, cooking, and bathing remain safe under the adjusted treatment regime.

Contact Seminole County Utilities if you experience persistent odor, discoloration, or other concerns, so the plant can investigate and respond. The county expressed appreciation for community patience while maintenance is completed and normal ozone production is restored.