Why Chlorine Is in Orlando Water
Orlando adds chlorine to tap water as a disinfectant to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. The chlorination process is required by the EPA and is one of the most effective ways to prevent waterborne disease. Here is what you need to know:
- Chlorine dose: Orlando maintains 0.2-2.0 mg/L (ppm) of chlorine in the distribution system. This is well within EPA safety limits.
- Chloramine treatment: Orlando uses chloramines (chlorine + ammonia) for disinfection, which is more stable than pure chlorine and creates fewer disinfection byproducts.
- Taste and odor: Most Orlando residents notice chlorine taste and odor in tap water, especially in summer when water consumption is higher and chlorine contact time is shorter.
- Skin and hair effects: Chlorine in shower water can dry out skin, cause itching, and damage hair. Orlando's humidity makes this less noticeable than in dry climates, but the effects are still present.
How Carbon Filters Remove Chlorine
Activated carbon works through a process called adsorption. Here is the step-by-step mechanism:
- Water flows through carbon: Tap water passes through a bed of compressed activated carbon.
- Chlorine molecules stick: Chlorine molecules are attracted to the carbon surface and become trapped in the carbon's microscopic pores.
- Chemical reaction: Chlorine reacts with the carbon, converting to harmless chloride ions and water.
- Clean water exits: The filtered water is free of chlorine, with 95-99% removal efficiency.
The effectiveness depends on contact time — the slower the water flows through the carbon, the more chlorine is removed. A 10-inch carbon block filter provides adequate contact time for complete chlorine removal in Orlando.
Effectiveness and Flow Rate
Here is how different filter types compare for chlorine removal in Orlando:
| Filter Type | Chlorine Removal | Flow Rate | Lifespan |
| Carbon Block (10-inch) | 95-99% | 10-15 GPM | 6-12 months |
| Granular Carbon (GAC) | 90-95% | 15-25 GPM | 6-12 months |
| Sediment Only | 0% | 15-25 GPM | 3-6 months |
| Multi-Stage (3-5) | 95-99% | 10-20 GPM | 6-12 months |
For Orlando's chloramine-treated water, a carbon block filter provides the best balance of contaminant removal and flow rate. The Aqua Home Water 5-Stage Whole House at $800-1,200 installed achieves 95-99% chlorine removal.
Health and Cosmetic Benefits
Removing chlorine from your whole house water provides these benefits:
- Better-tasting drinking water: Eliminates chlorine taste and odor from all faucets.
- Improved shower experience: Chlorine-free shower water is gentler on skin and hair, reducing dryness and irritation.
- Better cooking results: Food prepared with chlorine-free water tastes cleaner and more natural.
- Protected plumbing: Chlorine corrodes metal pipes and fixtures over time. Filtration extends the life of your plumbing system.
- Reduced chemical exposure: Chlorine is absorbed through skin during showers and inhaled as vapor. Filtration reduces exposure significantly.
Bottom line: A whole house carbon block filter removes 95-99% of chlorine from Orlando's tap water, improving taste, odor, and skin health. The Aqua Home Water 5-Stage Whole House ($800-1,200 installed) is the best choice for complete chlorine removal in Orlando. Replace filters every 6-12 months for optimal performance. Getting a free water test will confirm your chlorine levels and help you choose the right system.
Does a whole house filter remove chlorine from Orlando water?
Yes, a carbon block whole house filter removes 95-99% of chlorine from Orlando's tap water. The activated carbon chemically reacts with chlorine, converting it to chloride and water. For complete removal, choose a system with a minimum 10-inch carbon block filter. The Aqua Home Water 5-Stage Whole House removes 95-99% of chlorine.
Why does Orlando water smell like chlorine?
Orlando adds chlorine (actually chloramines) to disinfect water and kill bacteria. The chlorine taste and odor are normal and indicate the water is safe from microbial contamination. However, many homeowners find the chlorine smell unpleasant for drinking, cooking, and showering. A whole house carbon filter eliminates the chlorine odor.
How long does a carbon filter last before chlorine breakthrough?
In Orlando, a 10-inch carbon block filter typically lasts 6-12 months before chlorine breakthrough occurs. Higher chlorine or chloramine levels may reduce lifespan to 6 months. Signs of a clogged filter include reduced water pressure, chlorine odor returning, and off-taste in water. Replace filters every 6 months in Orlando for optimal chlorine removal.
What is the best filter for chlorine removal?
A 10-inch carbon block filter is the best for chlorine removal, achieving 95-99% removal efficiency. Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters are slightly less effective but have higher flow rates. For Orlando's chloramine-treated water, carbon block is the gold standard. The Aqua Home Water 5-Stage Whole House uses carbon block for maximum chlorine removal.
Does chlorine removal affect water pressure?
A properly sized carbon block filter will not significantly affect water pressure. Orlando homes typically have 40-80 PSI water pressure, which is ideal. A 10-inch carbon block filter may reduce flow by 5-10%, which is imperceptible. If you notice pressure drops, the filter may be clogged (time to replace) or the system may be undersized for your home's demand.