Chloramine in tap water
Starting April 10, 2006 the Champlain Water District switched from chlorine to chloramines to disinfect the water. This district includes Shelburne, South Burlington, Williston, Essex Junction, Essex, Jericho Village, Milton, Winooski, Mallets Bay Water Company, Colchester Fire Districts #1 and #3.
Chloramines are being used because they do a better job of killing bad bacteria in the water than just chlorine. Chloramines are a combination of chlorine and ammonia. Both of these are harmful to fish by burning their gills, but because chloramines contain ammonia it is important to pick the right water conditioner to keep your fish safe.
You must choose a water conditioner that removes (not just neutralizes) both chlorine and ammonia. When you use one of these products the chloramines are broken down into chlorine and ammonia and then the water conditioner acts on both of these parts to keep them at non-toxic levels to keep your fish safe. If you are used to using a water conditioner that only treats chlorine, you will not be protecting your fish from chloramines. Make sure you read the label and follow the proper dosage requirements for the amount of water in your tanks and the kind of fish you are keeping. It is also very important to keep a fresh supply of activated carbon in your filter and to replenish the carbon on a regular basis, about once a month.
The water district will be injecting 2.6 ppm of chloramines (2.6mg/liter) into the water supply. If you live at the far end of the water system this level is projected to be at 1 ppm.
It is also very important to understand that chloramines do not dissipate into the air like chlorine does. So if you are used to letting your water sit out for 24 hours before using it in your tank or fish bowl this will no longer work. You will need to condition your water with a product that eliminates chloramines (not just neutralizes).
The Pet Advantage carries the proper water conditioners to keep your fish safe. If you have any questions please ask one of our staff members for help. If you have any questions for the water district you can contact them at 802-864-7454.
Thank you for shopping at The Pet Advantage.