Evansville Water Customers May Notice Temporary Change in Taste and Smell

If your tap water suddenly smells a little more like a swimming pool over the next few weeks, Evansville Water and Sewer Utility says there's no reason to panic.

EWSU announced it will temporarily switch from the disinfectant used in the city's water treatment process beginning May 18 through June 29, 2026, as part of routine preventative maintenance designed to keep water mains clean and free of harmful bacteria.

According to the utility, the water will remain safe to drink during the temporary change.

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EWSU Will Temporarily Switch to Free Chlorine

For most of the year, EWSU uses chloramine in its treatment process, which has been the standard locally since 1999.

During the temporary maintenance period, the utility will switch to free chlorine, which officials say is a slightly stronger disinfectant that helps clean the distribution system and prevent bacteria from developing resistance to the normal treatment process.

Utilities that use chloramine are encouraged under state drinking water guidelines to periodically make the temporary switch.

Some Customers May Notice a Different Smell or Taste

EWSU says some customers may notice:

• A stronger chemical smell
• A mild swimming pool-like odor
• Slight difference in taste

Officials say sensitivity varies from person to person, and many customers may not notice any difference at all.

The utility emphasized that the water will continue to meet or exceed federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards throughout the process.

Dialysis Patients and Fish Owners Should Continue Taking Precautions

While the water remains safe for normal household use, EWSU says certain groups should continue taking precautions just as they normally would with chloraminated water.

That includes:

• Kidney dialysis patients
• Medical facilities
• Tropical fish and pond owners
• Businesses requiring highly processed water

Dialysis patients are encouraged to contact their physician or dialysis center with any questions regarding the temporary switch.

Fish owners should continue using water conditioners that remove chlorine and chloramine before adding tap water to aquariums.

Temporary Water Treatment Changes Happen Twice a Year

EWSU says the disinfectant switch is part of routine maintenance that occurs twice annually, with another temporary conversion planned later this summer.

For most residents, the biggest difference may simply be noticing a slightly stronger chlorine smell when turning on the tap.

Additional information about local water quality can be obtained through EWSU's Water Quality Manager by calling 812-428-0568.