What the City says about chloramines
The report's chloramines section explains that chloramines kill bacteria and other microorganisms, last longer in the distribution system than chlorine alone, produce fewer disinfection byproducts, and have little to no odor when used properly. Consistent with that, the report lists very low byproducts: total trihalomethanes at 0.91 ppb and haloacetic acids at 3.3 ppb. Even so, sensitivity varies, and many people notice the disinfectant in hot showers and plain drinking water.
Two groups the City flags
- Fish and aquariums: the City notes chloramines are toxic to fish and aquatic life, and that people with fishponds, tanks or aquariums should adjust their water treatment.
- Kidney dialysis: the City advises dialysis patients to consult their health-care provider about appropriate water treatment.
Both are utility notices, not something a home filter salesperson should handle; follow the City's guidance.
Why plain carbon can struggle
Activated carbon removes free chlorine quickly, but chloramine reacts more slowly. A filter that works for chlorine may let more chloramine through at shower flow or with several taps running. Manufacturers address this with catalytic carbon or other media designed for chloramine, more media for longer contact time, and sizing to real peak flow. Read choosing a filter for chloramine.
The City's report also notes that the disinfectant in drinking water eventually dissipates, even in a closed container. That is useful if you store water for hurricane season: the report notes that some experts believe stored water could be kept up to six months before replacing, and that refrigeration helps slow bacterial growth.
Certification to look for
Look for NSF/ANSI 42 certification that names chloramine reduction for the exact model, and ask for its rated capacity and flow. Living Water describes its Puronics Clarius iGen and Goodspring whole-home city water systems as removing chlorine and chloramine; Jorge will show you the specifics of what he recommends.
Where to filter
| Home and goal | What fits |
|---|---|
| House, smell in every shower | Whole-home system |
| Condo, better drinking water | Under-sink alkaline RO |
| House, both | Whole-home plus RO |
In high-rise condos, a unit-level whole-home system is usually impractical, so RO for drinking water and a certified shower filter are the common pair.
Measure it
Jorge measures total chlorine at your tap during the free visit, so you know your starting point. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.cohb.org/DocumentCenter/View/37801/2025-CCR---Hallandale-Beach-2025-Water-Quality-Report
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist