Warsaw residents report intensified chlorine smell in tap water causing concern, with MPWiK explaining it’s due to winter conditions and will subside.
Rising Concerns Among Residents
In recent days, Warsaw residents have increasingly reported that tap water has a noticeably stronger, chlorine smell than usual, causing concern and a wave of complaints in local discussions.
The problem appears to be felt across various districts of the city. Reports indicate that on Bielany, complaints have reportedly appeared “practically for a week, and even slightly longer,” with similar signals coming from areas including Bemowo, Białołęka, Żoliborz, and Mokotów.
Smell Comparable to Swimming Pools
Statements from residents show that the issue extends beyond taste, primarily concerning the intense smell, which some have compared to that of a swimming pool. In a Warsaw-focused forum, one resident wrote: “Since yesterday, the tap water on Targówek smells so intensely of chlorine as I’ve never smelled in Warsaw,” questioning if “something has changed in the process and this is the new normal.”
MPWiK’s Explanation
In a response to inquiries, MPWiK emphasized that “all water parameters in the network are maintained,” noting that the stronger odor may be attributed to winter conditions. The company explained that low water temperatures can cause slower “consumption” of the disinfectant used in water treatment, making it more noticeable.
MPWiK clarified that water treatment processes are adjusted to respond to both summer and winter conditions. Despite the noticeable smell, the disinfectant content remains low and meets Ministry of Health standards from December 7, 2017, including the limit of 0.3 mg/l at the consumer’s tap. According to MPWiK, during low-temperature periods, disinfectant doses are periodically increased to ensure proper water protection, and the observed smell is not due to equipment failure but should gradually subside as water temperatures rise.
