Arlington County, the District of Columbia and northeastern Fairfax will adjust their water treatment process starting Monday, March 24, as part of an annual practice that lasts through May 5. During this time, the year-round disinfectant chloramine will be temporarily switched to chlorine to clean water mains and clear them of any flow issues.Water service will continue uninterrupted during the procedure. Customers may notice a slight change in taste or odor when getting water from the tap; this is to be expected and the water is still safe to drink thanks to the purification process. County staff will continually monitor chlorine levels to ensure water quality meets required standards.Arlington and surrounding jurisdictions receive water from the Washington Aqueduct, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Aqueduct initiates the annual disinfectant switchover typically in the spring to clean water pipes in its system as a standard water treatment practice. Arlington’s water distribution network is made up of some 500 miles of pipes linked to homes, businesses and schools.Along with the disinfection switch, Arlington will conduct a system-wide flushing to enhance year-round water quality. Residents may see open fire hydrants as part of the routine.Here is what to expect between March 24 and May 5:Water from the tap may have a distinct smell and taste of chlorine. These can be minimized by using a tap filter system or letting the water sit in an open container for an hour or two in the refrigerator, which will allow the chlorine smell and taste to dissipate.Customers who take special precautions to remove chloramine from tap water during the rest of the year should continue such methods during the temporary switch to chlorine. As always, those with special concerns should consult their health care provider.There is a possibility that discolored water generated from the process of flushing fire hydrants may stain clothes being washed in nearby homes. Flushing will take place between 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday. We encourage residents to plan ahead if they are doing laundry during this time period. The County can provide a special detergent to remove stains upon request. Call 703-228-5000 for more details.Arlington’s drinking water continues to meet or exceed all safety standards established by the federal Environmental Protection Agency and Virginia Department of Health.For more information on Arlington’s water treatment process, visit the County website or call 703-228-5000, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or the 24-hour line at 703-228-6555.