Chloramine vs. chlorine in plain words
| Free chlorine | Chloramine | |
|---|---|---|
| Made from | Chlorine | Chlorine plus ammonia |
| Lasts in pipes | Shorter | Longer |
| Removed by ordinary carbon | Readily | Slowly |
| Used for 3BC water | During periodic maintenance | Normally |
Where it comes from
Hollywood's 2025 report says water from both its aquifer sources is disinfected with chloramines to maintain quality and safety throughout the distribution network. Broward County then delivers it through 3BC. Broward County's Water Services page explains that free chlorination periods are a common practice for systems using combined chlorine and posts notices by district.
Free chlorine periods can make the water smell stronger for a few weeks. That is normal maintenance, not a sign that something has gone wrong.
What to buy
- Catalytic carbon or media made for chloramine.
- A chloramine reduction claim in the exact model's NSF/ANSI 42 listing.
- Sizing for your peak flow and the higher end of the residual.
Living Water describes its Puronics Clarius iGen and Goodspring whole-home systems as removing chloramine and chlorine. More in the chloramine filter guide.
Small filters
Pitchers, faucet filters, fridge filters and shower filters have limited carbon and contact time. Some list chloramine, many do not. If a small filter is your choice, check the exact listing and change it on time.
Boiling is not an effective way to remove chloramine, and letting a pitcher sit in the fridge removes it slowly at best.
Pets and aquariums
Chloramine must be neutralized before water goes into an aquarium. Ask a pet supply store for a conditioner that handles chloramine, not just chlorine.
Sizing for the high end
The county's figure is a year-long result, and individual samples vary across the system and through the year. A filter sized only for an average can fall behind during weeks when the residual is higher, or when the whole household is showering at once. Size the media for your peak flow and the upper readings, and replace it on schedule, so the taste does not creep back.
Test your residual
Jorge measures total and free chlorine at your tap. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.hollywoodfl.org/DocumentCenter/View/25123/2025WaterQualityReport
https://www.broward.org/waterservices/WaterQualityReport
https://www.broward.org/WaterServices/Pages/Default.aspx
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist