Drinking Water

The Harnett County water treatment plant adds fluoride to our drinking water supply to promote strong teeth. The EPA sets the maximum contaminant level for fluoride at 4 mg/L. Harnett County fluoride levels average 0.71 mg/L, well below the EPA's set levels.

The water is considered moderately soft and usually averages between 30-50 mg/L hardness as calcium carbonate or 1.75-2.92 grains of hardness per gallon.

The Town's water is treated with chloramines for 11 months out of the year. During March, Harnett County Public Utilities, along with other municipalities in North Carolina, switches from chloramines to chlorine to “purge” the water distribution system. While both chlorine and chloramines are effective agents for disinfecting water, chloramines last longer in the system, while chlorine is a stronger disinfectant. By making the switch once annually, the integrity of the water quality is preserved, protecting human health.