Water Treatment Process

Wells

Step 1 Water is pumped from three underground aquifers using the eight wells.

Picture of metal pumps and pipes in a building.

Filtration

Step 5 Filtration removes remaining suspended matter by passing the water through filter media.

Picture of a series of concrete pools inside a building with walkways between them.

Aeration

Step 2 Once pumped out of the ground, water is passed through large aerators to add oxygen and remove dissolved gases.

picture of the Aeration equipment. Large round metal device.

Fluoride Addition

Step 6  Fluoride is added to the water to aid in the prevention of tooth decay.

Picture of chemical mixing tank.

Chemical Addition

Step 3 Chlorine, lime, and alum are added to adjust the pH and disinfect the water.

Sedimentation Basins

Step 4 Coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation are processes that remove solid particles such as iron.

Picture of chemical mixing tank.
Picture of a series of tarped concrete pools outside the building with walkways between them.

Clearwell

Step 7 Storage of finished water prior to entering the distribution system.

A picture of a large white circular structure know as the Clearwell.

Distribution System

Step 8 After ongoing the treatment process, the finished water enters the distribution system.  It is delivered to 11,700 homes and businesses throughout the City of Annapolis.  The water distribution system is comprised of 138 miles of water mains.  In addition to water mains, the distribution system consists of fire hydrants, valves, elevated storage tanks, and various other components that allow for the finished water to be delivered to the City’s homes and businesses.

Picture of a blue roundish structure on top of a petal stool standing above the tree line.
Fire Hydrant painted yellow and green.