Each spring, many households in North Texas notice their tap water smells or tastes more like a swimming pool. It is planned maintenance, and it only lasts a few weeks.
A temporary switch to chlorine
Many North Texas cities disinfect with chloramine, a combination of chlorine and ammonia. The North Texas Municipal Water District, which serves cities in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Rockwall and several other counties, temporarily stops adding ammonia each spring and uses chlorine only. In 2026, that ran from March 2 through March 30. The district says this helps prepare pipes for the summer heat and that it has done this maintenance for years.
What you might notice
- A stronger chlorine taste and smell
- More hydrant flushing in your neighborhood
- Changes that are more noticeable in drinking water and ice
The district says the water remains safe to drink throughout the process. Your city’s schedule may differ, so check with your local water utility.
If taste and odor bother you
- Reverse osmosis: A reverse osmosis system under the sink treats the water you drink and cook with.
- Whole house filtration: Treats water at every faucet and shower. Chloramine can be harder to remove than chlorine, so choose a filter designed for it.
A water softener is a different tool. It handles hardness, but it will not remove chlorine or chloramine.
Find out what your home needs
Our local team serves Irving, Dallas and communities across the Dallas–Fort Worth area. We can test your water at your home for free and explain your options. Schedule your free water consultation.
