Primary and secondary disinfection
WASD's report describes two steps. Chlorine is added as the primary disinfectant. Ammonia is then added to combine with it and form chloramine, a secondary disinfectant that protects the water as it travels through the distribution system. At the Hialeah and Preston plants that generally serve Miami Springs, this follows softening, filtration and air stripping. Main-system chloramine ranged from not detected to 4.0 ppm in 2025, with a 2.5 ppm running annual average, under the maximum of 4.
The yearly free-chlorine weeks
Once a year WASD temporarily uses free chlorine instead of chloramine and flushes hydrants, a practice dating to 1983. In 2026 it ran September 28 to October 11. Residents may notice a chlorine taste or smell, slightly lower pressure or brief discoloration. People using home dialysis, aquarium owners and businesses with fish tanks are advised to get professional guidance during those weeks.
Why basic carbon struggles
Chloramine is more stable than chlorine and needs more contact time and the right media. A small cartridge that handles chlorine may let much of the chloramine pass. That's why a filter that worked fine somewhere using plain chlorine can disappoint in Miami Springs. Read choosing a filter for chloramine.
Certification
Look for NSF/ANSI 42 certification that specifically lists chloramine reduction, and match the exact model and cartridge on the certifier's listing. Living Water describes its Puronics whole-home systems as removing chloramine and chlorine.
A different cartridge size or an off-brand replacement may not carry the same listing.
Where to treat
- Whole-home: every shower, sink and the laundry. See whole-home filtration in Miami Springs.
- Kitchen RO: drinking and cooking. See under-sink RO.
- Both: the usual choice for families who want a better shower and the best water for drinking.
If only drinking water bothers you, kitchen RO may be enough; only whole-home treatment reaches the shower.
Who notices it
Tap-water drinkers, coffee and tea drinkers, people who take long hot showers, and anyone with an aquarium. Restaurants near the city's business areas often filter for taste too.
Aquariums always need water treated for chloramine, not only during the conversion weeks.
Measure first
Jorge measures total chlorine at your tap so you know your starting point. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
You keep the written results, and there's no obligation.
https://www.miamidade.gov/resources/water/documents/2025-water-quality-report.pdf
https://www.miamilakes-fl.gov/miami-dade-water-and-sewer-department-announces-annual-chlorine-conversion/
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist