What is the purpose of prechlorination in water treatment?

Prechlorination is a critical step in the water treatment process that serves the purpose of killing most disease-causing organisms and helping control taste and odor-causing substances. The addition of chlorine at this stage effectively reduces pathogens and bacteria present in the raw water, thus providing a safer water supply for consumption. Moreover, prechlorination mitigates the potential for taste and odor issues that can arise from organic materials and algae present in the source water, ensuring that the treated water is both safe and palatable for users.

The use of chlorine as a disinfectant is well-established in water treatment, and its application prior to other treatment processes allows for enhanced removal of contaminants later in the treatment cycle. By addressing microbial safety upfront, the water treatment facility can ensure that the subsequent treatments can focus on further refining the water's quality. Prechlorination not only protects public health but also contributes to the overall aesthetic quality of drinking water.