OKC Standard

A potential purchase of water from the City of Oklahoma City could require Edmond residents who require the use of a home kidney dialysis machine to adjust their method of operation.

Edmond’s water supply consists of two primary sources and a secondary source. The primary sources are surface water from Arcadia Lake and well water from the Garber-Wellington aquifer. The secondary source is treated water purchased from Oklahoma City and may be used during the summer months.

Oklahoma City water, if necessary, will not be purchased any earlier than 30 days from the date of this notice. City of Edmond Water Resources officials want to advise residents of the purchase because some home dialysis machines may need adjustment due to the different disinfection system used by Oklahoma City.

Although residents typically do not notice any change, kidney dialysis machines may require a different method of operation. Oklahoma City uses chloramines and Edmond uses chlorine, which is termed “Free” chlorine, for disinfection. Both disinfecting processes meet all state standards and are accepted industry-wide.

When bringing in smaller amounts of Oklahoma City water, Edmond uses the connection located on the southwest side of town. Water is delivered to a large ground tank and then pumped back out as needed. The Oklahoma City water used from this location is diluted with Edmond “Well” water.

In the event Edmond needs to bring in large amounts of water, there is a connection and pump station in northwest Edmond. This facility can accommodate up to 15 million gallons of water per day. If it becomes necessary to utilize this facility then Edmond can, if needed, convert the chloramine disinfectant back to the “Free” chlorine state, or use it as it is.

Water Resources Department personnel are contacting hospitals and other medical facilities to advise them of the potential purchase of Oklahoma City water. Personnel are also calling residents that are known to use home kidney dialysis.

Residents are encouraged to advise the Water Resources Department if they have a medical condition that would warrant notification prior to a change. To report a medical condition, call 405-216-7811 between the hours of 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. on Friday.

Also, fish aquariums with filters may require a different method of operation due to the chloramine disinfection process. Fish owners are urged to contact their local pet store for instructions.

Original source can be found here.