Annual water disinfection conversion begins Feb. 1
KILLEEN, Texas (Jan. 20, 2026) – Bell County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 (BCWCID1) has scheduled its annual water treatment conversion to begin Sunday, Feb. 1, and continue through Saturday, Feb. 28, temporarily converting its disinfectant from chloramines to free chlorine as part of routine system maintenance.
Following the conversion period, BCWCID1 will resume disinfecting with chloramines. This planned, preventive measure is conducted annually to help maintain water quality throughout the transmission and delivery system.
BCWCID1 provides wholesale water service to the cities of Killeen, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove and Belton, as well as Bell County WCID No. 3 (Nolanville), 439 Water Supply Corporation and the Fort Hood Military Reservation.
The temporary use of free chlorine is an accepted and recommended practice by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to help maintain water quality and minimize nitrification.
During the conversion period, some residents may notice temporary changes in the taste or odor of their water. Water crews will conduct continuous water sampling throughout the conversion to monitor water quality as the disinfectant moves through the distribution system. Customers may continue to use their water as usual during this time.
Disinfection is a critical part of the water treatment process that protects drinking water from harmful microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses. Under normal operations, water is treated at the plant and then maintained with chloramines—a combination of chlorine and ammonia—as it travels through the distribution system. During the temporary conversion, BCWCID1 will suspend the addition of ammonia and use free chlorine to maintain proper disinfection.
Public water systems are required to properly disinfect drinking water and maintain adequate disinfectant levels throughout their systems. While chloramine is widely used because it provides long-lasting disinfection and limits certain disinfection by-products, prolonged use—combined with factors such as high temperatures or water stagnation—can contribute to the buildup of organic material in pipes. A temporary conversion to free chlorine, along with system flushing, helps remove this material and improve overall water quality.
The City of Killeen continues to meet all safe drinking water standards and has maintained a superior rating from TCEQ since February 2019.
Residents with questions regarding the temporary conversion may contact Trevor Butler at 254-501-9243.
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About the City of Killeen
Founded in 1882, the City of Killeen combines a charming hometown feel with vibrant cultural experiences influenced by its military heritage and diverse community. With over 160,000 residents, the city is committed to providing municipal services and facilities that meet the essential health, safety, and welfare needs of its residents while also enhancing the overall quality of life. Discover what makes Killeen special at killeentexas.gov.