Pompano Beach residents could notice a chlorine smell from their faucets starting November 2
Pompano Beach, Florida – A glass of tap water may taste or smell a little different in Pompano Beach this November. For residents who notice the change, city officials have a simple explanation: the water system is undergoing routine maintenance, and the temporary difference is expected.
The change will last four weeks, but it comes with an important message for households, aquarium owners, and people with certain medical needs. While the city says its water will remain safe for everyday use, some customers should take additional precautions.
The City of Pompano Beach Utilities Department announced that it is temporarily changing how it disinfects drinking water throughout its distribution system. The process, known as free chlorination, begins Monday, November 2, 2026, and continues through Monday, November 30.
According to the city, the treatment is part of its ongoing efforts to maintain drinking water quality. Free chlorination is a common maintenance procedure among water utilities, and Pompano Beach periodically uses it as part of its regular operations.
Under normal conditions, the city’s drinking water is disinfected with chloramines, which combine chlorine and ammonia. During November’s maintenance period, the Utilities Department will temporarily switch to free chlorine instead.
That difference may be noticeable at the kitchen sink.
Residents could detect a slight change in the taste or odor of their tap water while the temporary treatment is underway. However, city officials emphasize that the water will remain safe for drinking, preparing meals, bathing, and other routine household activities.
Free chlorine is not an unusual disinfectant. Many water providers across the United States use it as their regular treatment method rather than reserving it for periodic maintenance.
Still, the city is encouraging certain customers to pay particular attention to the announcement.
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People undergoing dialysis and those with compromised immune systems are advised to consult their healthcare providers before the disinfectant change to determine whether it could affect their treatment or specific medical needs.
Aquarium owners also have something to consider.
Residents and businesses that use city water in fish tanks or ponds should contact an aquarium or pet professional about possible adjustments to their water treatment procedures. The notice specifically includes grocery stores and restaurants that maintain lobster tanks, along with bait shops that keep fish in water containers.
Meanwhile, another maintenance activity could produce a more visible change.
Throughout the four-week period, utility crews will flush fire hydrants across Pompano Beach. The city warns that this work may temporarily cause discolored tap water in some areas. Residents who encounter discoloration are advised to let their faucets run until the water becomes clear.
Once the maintenance period concludes on November 30, the Utilities Department plans to return to its usual chloramine-based disinfection process.
The city says protecting the quality of drinking water supplied to customers remains its primary priority, and the temporary switch is being conducted strictly as routine maintenance.
Residents with questions about the chlorination schedule, changes in water quality, or the ongoing maintenance work can contact the City of Pompano Beach Utilities Billing Division’s customer service team at 954-786-4637 for assistance.
