Chlorine or Chloramine - Canada
Looking for your city/town’s water disinfectant type in Canada – we've got it! We've verified each set of data and acquired it directly from primary sources. Typically, this means we located the data in municipal water reports or contacted municipal water utilities directly to confirm whether they use chlorine or chloramine as their primary disinfectant. Simply click on the province/territory you're in, and find your city/town. If your city/town is missing – let us know – and we'll add it in right away!
Chlorine or chloramine by province & territory
Understanding the data - why disinfectant type matters
Although both chlorine and chloramine are approved disinfectants for Canadian drinking water systems, they behave quite differently once they enter the distribution system. These differences can influence:
- Disinfection by-products – the types and levels of chemical by-products that can form as treated water travels through pipes
- Distribution system stability – how long the disinfectant remains effective as water moves from the treatment plant to the tap
- Taste and odour – the smell or flavour some people notice in their drinking water
- Plumbing compatibility – how the disinfectant interacts with household and building plumbing materials
- Treatment selection – which point-of-use or whole-home filtration systems are effective for reducing or removing the disinfectant
- Knowing whether your water is treated with chlorine or chloramine is incredibly helpful for choosing the right compatible water filters, whole-house systems, and other treatment products
This information allows individuals and organizations to better understand their local water supply and make informed decisions about water treatment, maintenance, and risk management.
Disinfectant Removal
Some households and businesses choose to reduce or remove disinfectants from their municipal water supply for a variety of reasons, including taste, odour, or specific use requirements. If you are considering options to address chlorine or chloramine in your water, the solutions below can be reviewed based on disinfectant type and intended application.
Related National Resources
- Health Canada – Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality (primary framework for all parameters)
- Health Canada – Chlorine Technical Guideline (official technical review of chlorine use and effects)
- Health Canada – Chloramines Technical Guideline (definitive government analysis of chloramine behavior and safety)