Click on Frequently Asked Questions below, but if you don't find what you're looking for, please contact the SSID administrator at administrator@savaryshoreswater.ca or 604-414-8448. If a chlorine flush is in progress, it will be the first entry in the Recent News on the homepage.
What is a chlorine flush?
A chlorine flush is a procedure involving the application of a 12% solution of sodium hypochlorite to one or both of SSID's water tanks in order to disinfect any part of the infrastructure that may have tested positive for E.coli or coliforms.
Is the water safe for drinking?
Yes, the water will be treated with a quantity of sodium hypochlorite 12% that is within Canada's Drinking Water Guidelines.
Why is it necessary to treat the water?
Chlorination is necessary to prevent any coliform bacteria from settling and multiplying. Coliforms can develop into increased quantities that are associated with an elevated risk of waterborne diseases, including gastroenteritis. Coliforms are living bacteria that divide and multiply, so even a small count should be prevented.
What kind of chlorine is used?
The chlorine used is a sodium hypochlorite 12% solution.
How much chlorine is added to the water?
The amount of chlorine (sodium hypochlorite 12%) is variable. If applying to the 40,000-gallon lower tank, the amount would be 4x more than if applying to the 10,000-gallon upper tank, because the amount of chlorine is based on a prescribed ratio of chlorine to water at its application point, with another calculation for the residual amount to be achieved at the end of the water line. The residual goal is a range of 0.2 parts per million to 2.0 parts per million.
How do I get rid of the smell and taste?
Run your tap for at least 5 minutes. Leave tap water on the counter in an open carafe for a few hours or until the chlorine smell dissipates. Citric acid neutralizes chlorine so a little squeeze of lemon works as well. We have received reports of a chlorine smell still detected in the water after a week. As more people use the water, the smell will dissipate.
How often do you test for E.coli and coliforms?
SSID tests monthly at 8 sample stations throughout the District. All 8 samples must show less than one part per million. The water tests are posted to the Monthly Reports webpage.
Where do the coliforms come from?
At the time of the flush, it may be unknown how bacteria has entered the system. There may be instances where a part of the distribution system is failing, or that organic matter was introduced in above-water openings, or even that bacteria entered during the water sampling procedure itself, regardless of sanitary precautions.
When will SSID do its next chlorine flush?
Chlorine was previously flushed through the waterworks on April 15 and 16, 2023, following a tank cleaning. The date for another chlorination has not yet been determined.
Is chlorine the same as bleach?
Both chlorine and bleach come in several forms, so one is not exactly the other. The chlorine used in SSID flushes is a 12% solution of sodium hypochlorite. However, the smell and taste of this disinfectant does smell and taste as you might expect bleach to taste. This does not mean bleach is safe for consumption.
What other chemicals does SSID add to the water?
SSID water is untreated, except when bacteria has been detected. The aquifer water is considered pristine, so does not need treatment. The water does however have natural components, such as minerals for example. Twice per year, SSID does a full spectrum analysis.
