Why is chlorine added to the City of San Luis Obispo s water?
Chlorine is added to treated drinking water as it enters the distribution system from the treatment plant and from wells. A chlorine residual ensures that no bacterial contamination of the water occurs. Chlorine concentrations vary according to the distance from the point of chlorine application. Chlorine residuals in the system range from 0.2 mg/l to 1.2 mg/l depending on the proximity to the treatment plant or wells. While chlorine can cause complaints of bad taste, City customers can be assured that the water supply meets and exceeds safe drinking water standards.
