What is a common effect of excessive alkalinity in treated water?

Excessive alkalinity in treated water can significantly affect the water quality and the efficiency of disinfection processes. High levels of alkalinity can lead to changes in the water's chemical composition, which may reduce the effectiveness of disinfection agents, such as chlorine. When the alkalinity is too high, it can cause the formation of chloramines instead of free chlorine, which are less effective as disinfectants. This can ultimately compromise the treatment process by allowing pathogens to survive in the water, leading to potential public health risks.

Balancing alkalinity is crucial to ensure that disinfection systems operate properly. Therefore, recognizing the influence of excessive alkalinity on disinfection efficiency is essential for maintaining water safety and quality.