To produce water that is optimized for “corrosion control,” specifically to reduce lead and copper, and other metal corrosion in customers’ pipes and the distribution system, York Water District adds an orthophosphate corrosion inhibitor (as part of a blended phosphate chemical) to form a protective film on pipes.

 

The blended phosphate chemical added contains orthophosphate for corrosion control and some polyphosphate to help maintain water clarity and prevent red-tinted water when traveling through older pipes. YWD also raises water pH with sodium carbonate which makes the water less corrosive. This combination has proven to appropriately reduce corrosion while maintaining stable, high-quality water in the distribution system.