Ambler Borough is pleased to announce that new drinking water treatment improvements, including a state-of-the-art granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment facility for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) removal, have been placed into service. The facility provides GAC treatment to Ambler’s Wells 2, 6, & 7, located near the Loch Alsh Reservoir. The project represents a significant investment in the community’s drinking water infrastructure and was undertaken to further improve water quality, support regulatory compliance, and ensure the continued delivery of safe, reliable drinking water to customers.
The new treatment system utilizes granular activated carbon, a proven technology for the removal of PFAS compounds. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are a group of manufactured compounds that have been detected in water supplies across the United States. Although the PFAS levels in Ambler’s wells meet all current regulatory standards, the new facility is designed to effectively remove PFAS from the water supply and help ensure compliance with current and future drinking water regulations.
In addition to the PFAS treatment improvements, the project includes the conversion from chlorine gas disinfection to liquid sodium hypochlorite disinfection. This upgrade improves operational safety by eliminating the need to store and handle chlorine gas while maintaining the disinfectant protection necessary throughout the water distribution system.
This treatment facility is the first of several PFAS removal systems that will be constructed in the Ambler Borough Water Department system over the next five years.
What Customers Can Expect
As the new treatment facilities are integrated into normal operations, customers should continue to receive safe drinking water that meets all applicable drinking water standards.
During the initial startup and transition period, some customers may notice temporary and minor changes in water quality characteristics, including:
- Slight changes in chlorine taste or odor.
- Temporary fluctuations in disinfectant residual levels.
- Occasional discolored water resulting from the disturbance of naturally occurring mineral deposits within older water mains.
- Increased flushing activities by utility personnel throughout the distribution system.
These temporary impacts are common when significant treatment process upgrades are introduced and are not expected to pose a health concern. Ambler staff will closely monitor water quality throughout the startup period and conduct additional system flushing as needed to minimize impacts to customers. Customers experiencing temporary discoloration are encouraged to run cold water from an inside faucet for several minutes. If conditions persist, customers should contact Ambler Boroug Water Department at 215-646-1000.
Ambler appreciates the patience and cooperation of residents during the startup period and remains committed to keeping customers informed.
For additional information about the project, please contact:
Ambler Borough Water Department
215-646-1000
