The City uses chloramines as the residual disinfectant in our water distribution system. Chloramines are a combination of chlorine and a small amount of ammonia. Use of chloramines allows the City to meet more stringent drinking-water regulations while simultaneously reducing the level of disinfection byproducts in the water and reducing the chlorine taste. Trihalomethanes are a disinfection byproduct formed when chlorine combines with naturally occurring organic matter present in our surface water from the Delta Mendota Canal. The trihalomethane levels in the City s water are well below the allowable limit.
Chloramines are a good disinfectant.
However, they can be a serious problem to an individual with kidney disease undergoing dialysis. The City of Tracy works with the State and County Health Departments to ensure that everyone involved with treatment of dialysis patients have been alerted as to the proper precautions to be taken. Chloramines, like chlorine, are toxic to fish. Therefore, anyone putting fish into water obtained from our supply should ensure that the fish are properly protected. Local pet and fish shops have products to neutralize chloramines.