High chlorine content with too many flats

[BobbyJoe]

Hi everyone,

Is it possible for chlorine content in mains water to be increase when everyone has been connected to the mains supply after being disconnected from water tanks.
I feel that the water quality smells more of bleach and the cold water is a a lot drier on skin ever since the other flats were disconnected from the water tanks and now all 6 of us are on one rising mains water supply, is this possible?

 

[Chuck]

The 'mains' water supply won't have changed. However, I can think of two things may have affected the water that is delivered to your taps.

Firstly, it is likely to be delivered at higher pressure than water from a storage tank. This is may cause taps, etc. to generate more aerosol (microscopic droplets) and these may be responsible for the 'chlorine' you are smelling.

Secondly, water that has been in storage tanks in the roof before being delivered will have had a time for the chlorine that is added to all mains water to have 'evaporated' before it is used.

Your water supplier will be able to tell you more about the level of chlorine in the supply at your location. Here's an example:

Chlorine and disinfectant tasteand smells | Anglian Water Services

Find out why your water has a chlorine/ disinfectant taste or smell.

www.anglianwater.co.uk

If you are concerned you can ask the supplier to check the level at your property.

There will also be private laboratories that can test water for you in your area. Don't just order tests without getting advice from the lab first, they will be able to tell you what type of test(s) are most appropriate for your circumstances and how to interpret the results. Expect to spend ca £100 if you go down this route.

If you have skin problems, I suggest you consult a doctor before blaming your plumbing. I'm not a medic, but my understanding is that chlorine and hardness in the water supply do not cause dermatitis, dryness, itching, etc. but they may make the symptoms of some conditions more noticeable/troublesome.