We have received some information from Mr. Richard Barnes, External Affairs Manager at the NJ American Water Company. (His office: 856 782 2371).
We have also asked the company for results of tests of our drinking water in Ocean Grove — ammonia and chloramine content for comparison to EPA safe level recommendations. Barnes has not yet responded to this request.
Also, here is a link to our August 13, 2012 article on this subject —-PG
What follows is reprinted from a water company handout, supplied by Richard Barnes:
Fish, Amphibian and Fish Pond Owners
Why are chloramines toxic to fish, reptiles and amphibians?
Chloramines are a combination of chlorine and ammonia, both which are harmful for fish, amphibians and reptiles. When water that contains chloramines is digested by humans that water is neutralized by the digestive system before it reaches the bloodstream. Since chloramines enter directly into the bloodstream of fish through gills, this inhibits the red blood cells’ ability to carry oxygen.
What precautions should fish shops, hobbyists and aquaculture businesses take?
Chloramines must be neutralized or removed from the water that is used in fish tanks, ponds and aquariums. Unlike free chlorine, chloramines do not dissipate as quickly from water. Chloramines should also be removed from the water that you use to top off fish ponds. Please consult your local pet store for more information
Will letting water sit for a few days cause chloramines to disappear?
No. Unlike chlorine, which will eventually dissipate, chloramines may take weeks to disappear.
What methods are available to remove chloramines and ammonia?
Chloramines can be removed in two ways:
With a carbon filter that contains a high-quality granular activated carbon, or with water treatment products designed to remove chloramines. Ammonia must also be removed because of the potentially toxic effect it may have on fish. Biological filters and natural zeolites can be effective at removing ammonia.
Will chloramines harm other pets?
No. Chloramines is only potentially harmful to fish and other aquatic or semi-aquatic life. Chloramines is safe for cats, dogs and birds.
Will boiling or reverse osmosis remove chloramines?
No. Chloramine cannot be removed by boiling water, reverse osmosis, adding salt or letting water stand in an open container to dissipate.
Is there a test to determine if the water is safe for aquatic animals?
Yes. Tests are available. Aquarium owners can monitor the ammonia and “total” chlorine (not free chlorine) concentrations using a total chlorine test or combined chlorine test. These tests can be found at your local pet or pool supply stores.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you have additional questions, please contact our Customer Service Center at 1-800-652-6987.
“New Jersey American Water” and the star logo are the registered trademarks of American Water Works Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
04-2012
This is why I never, ever drink tap water — ammonia? Chemicals that cannot be removed by reverse osmosis? This is scary stuff to be regularly ingesting. New York City adds no chemicals to its tap water, so what’s the problem here? Bottled water from a highly reputable dealer with a pristine water source is the only way to go. I have a water cooler and get water delivered in the 5-gallon jugs.
There will be citizens with skin, digestive, and respiratory symptoms – mild to life-threatening. It happens wherever chloramine is used. My son and I had horrible digestive cramps and skin rashes until we stopped drinking the tap water and changed the way we shower. chloramine.org and vce.org/chloramine
Should Seniors be concerned about this? People in their late 80′s, not us in our young 60′s? !
Actually, NYC does add chemicals to its water – chlorine, fluoride, orthophosphate, and sodium hydroxide – but it’s still better than most bottled water.
I too had terrible skin rashes and digestive problems from our chloraminated water. My husband had digestive problems and was told that surgery was a possibility. He eliminated tap water and the symptoms disappeared–no more medicine. Most people have no idea that the two things are related, and that includes medical personnel. Be aware.