Logan’s mains water will become slightly more alkaline from mid-August in a treatment change most residents are unlikely to notice — but aquarium owners and some specialised operators may need to adjust their equipment.
Seqwater executive general manager operations Fiore Zulli said the water’s pH would rise from about 7.8 to a target of 8.4.
The change is intended to help chloramine, a disinfectant used to maintain water quality, remain effective for longer as water moves through the distribution network.
It is also expected to reduce corrosion in the network and strengthen disinfection during Queensland’s warmer months.
“The pH level will increase from approximately 7.8 to a target of 8.4, remaining within the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines,” Mr Zulli said.
Seqwater will make the adjustment at its Mount Crosby and North Pine water treatment plants, which supply water used across Logan and several other South East Queensland council areas.
A pH of seven is neutral, while anything above seven is considered alkaline.
The new target remains within the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines’ recommended range of 6.5 to 8.5.
Information published by Logan Water says a carefully measured amount of sodium hydroxide will be added during treatment to increase the pH.
Mr Zulli said most households should not experience any noticeable change.
“Most customers won’t notice a difference in the taste or smell of their drinking water and the optimisation will help strengthen the overall treatment process year-round,” he said.
The adjustment would not affect the safety of drinking water.
However, dialysis providers, hospitals, food and beverage manufacturers, aquaculture operators and people who keep aquariums may need to review their treatment processes or equipment.
Those customers have been advised to contact Logan Water to determine whether any adjustments are required.
Seqwater treats and supplies bulk water, while Logan Water distributes it to local houses and businesses and monitors water quality throughout the network.
More information is available through Logan Council’s water treatment information page.
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