From the report
The City's process section reads that after aeration, lime softening and filtration, the water is disinfected with chloramines to destroy bacteria and other microorganisms. The disinfectant table lists it as chlorine (chloramine is measured as total chlorine) at 2.0 ppm on a running annual average, with a maximum residual disinfectant level of 4.0. Disinfection byproducts were low: HAA5 23.44 ppb and TTHM 22.14 ppb.
The yearly free chlorine switch
The City's public notice describes an annual preventive maintenance in which the disinfection process temporarily changes from combined chlorine and ammonia (chloramines) to free chlorine, with hydrant flushing. In 2024 it ran from September 19 to October 18. The notice says some people may notice a slight change in taste or odor, advises anyone on kidney dialysis to consult their physician, asks aquarium owners to check with a pet store, and suggests customers with inline filters contact the equipment manufacturer. Questions go to the Utilities Department at 954-724-7071.
Why plain carbon struggles
- Stability: the EPA notes chloramine lasts longer in the distribution system than free chlorine.
- Slow reaction: standard carbon needs more contact time with it.
- Small cartridges: pitchers and shower heads have very little contact time.
What to look for
- Catalytic carbon or chloramine-specific media.
- A chloramine reduction claim on the exact model's NSF/ANSI 42 listing; a chlorine claim alone does not cover it.
- Sizing for contact time at peak flow.
Living Water describes its Puronics Clarius iGen and Goodspring whole-home systems as removing chloramine and chlorine, so the free chlorine weeks are covered too.
Whole home or kitchen
A whole-home system covers every shower and tap. For drinking water only, under-sink RO with suitable carbon stages may be enough. See the chloramine filter guide.
Measure it
Because the City's 2025 samples ranged from 0.4 to 3.4 ppm, your level depends on where you live and how long water sits in your pipes. Jorge tests total and free chlorine at your tap, which shows the chloramine level where you actually use the water. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.nlauderdale.org/2025%20CCR.pdf
https://www.nlauderdale.org/NL%20FREE%20CHLORINATION%202024.pdf
https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/chloramines-drinking-water
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist