Chloramines

Chloramines in Drinking Water

Chloramines are one of the disinfectants used in drinking water.  They are used to control bacterial growth and regrowth, taste and odour problems in drinking water.  Chloramines help to deliver drinking water to you that is safe to drink, with the lowest possible levels of trihalomethanes (THMs).

What are Chloramines?

Chloramines are a combination of chlorine and a small amount of ammonia.  The recommended maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) in the Ontario Water Protection regulation for Chloramines in drinking water is 3.0 mg/L (3000 ug/L)

What are the Health Risks?

Although Chloramines are nontoxic to healthy people, they can have a weakening effect on individuals with kidney disease who must undergo dialysis.  Chloramines must be removed from the water used in dialysis treatments.

Also, Chloramines can be deadly for fish.  They can damage gill tissue and enter the red blood cells causing a sudden and sever blood disorder.  For this reason all Chloramine compounds must be removed from the water prior to any contact with fish.

Why use Chloramines instead of Chlorine?

Surface water contains organic matter.  When organic matter is combined with chlorine, the by-product Trihalomethane is formed.  Trihalomethanes may be linked to a slightly increased risk of some types of cancer.  When organic matter is combined with Chloramines, the forming of the by-product Trihalomethanes will be reduced in the range of 40 – 80%.

Should I stop drinking the water?

No, it is very important to maintain fluid intake of approximately 2 liters per day.  Everyone can drink water that contains chloramines.

What are my options to reduce the Chloramines in my water?

If you want to reduce the amount of Chloramines in your water, a granular activated carbon filter or ascorbic acid are common substances to reduce Chloramine residuals.

Where can I get more information?