The City of Taylor plans to change the way it disinfects drinking water, which will also affect the drinking water in the City of Hutto.

From May 15 to June 15, the water will be disinfected with free chlorine, which is full-strength chlorine, as opposed to chloramines, a mixture of ammonia and chlorine.

"It helps with any nitrification issues," said Scot Stromsness, City of Hutto public works director. "Inside the pipe, you kind of get buildup, and so the free chlorine goes out and cleans out the pipe and keeps the water disinfected properly."

During the time the process is switched, people may notice a change in the smell or taste of the water as well as some discoloration.

Stromsness said the water is safe to drink, but water customers that have fish or use water for medical purposes may need to consult their pet store or physician to determine if they need to make changes to their procedures.

Because the City of Taylor is making the change to its drinking water, the City of Hutto Utility Division will make the same change to water it purchases from Heart of Texas. Stromsness said Hutto also purchases water from Manville Water, but the city will not be using any water from Manville during this time period.

Call 759-4016 for more information.