DANVERS — In the first week of December, the town will begin using a new chemical to disinfect water in the pipes in both Danvers and Middleton, Department of Public Works Director David Lane said.
The chemical, monochloramine, will replace chlorine, and it should reduce the taste and odor of chlorine, according to the Danvers Water Division. The chemical is already in widespread use in water systems such as the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority.
Danvers and Middleton residents get their water from a treatment facility on Lake Street in Middleton. While chlorine will be used at the treatment plant, monochloramine will preserve water in the mains and pipes.
Monochloramine is safe to drink, cook with and bathe in, and will have benefits, officials say.
However, it is also something kidney dialysis patients, aquarium owners, businesses with live fish or lobsters or those businesses that use water in their processes need to be aware of, according to a fact sheet on the town's Web site, www.danvers.govoffice.com. (Search under the "Departments" heading, then go to "public works" and "water division.")
Monochloramine, like chlorine, can be toxic and must be removed from water used in dialysis machines. The town is notifying medical centers about the switch.
"Dialysis patients should consult with their physician or dialysis center for more information on the precautions they must take," the fact sheet says. Dialysis patients can safely use the water otherwise for drinking, cooking and bathing.
Danvers last week began flushing water mains in preparation for the chemical switch.
If you notice discoloration, run your tap for a few minutes to clear it out. For lasting problems, call the Water Division at 978-762-0230.
Staff writer Ethan Forman can be reached at 978-338-2673 or by e-mail at eforman@salemnews.com.
