Dibromoacetic acid in Marathon Florida Water

Unhealthy Levels of Dibromoacetic acid in the Water Supply of Marathon Florida Homes

Dibromoacetic acid is a disinfection byproduct that can form when water is treated to control microorganisms, often after chlorine or chloramine reacts with organic material in the source water. Because it’s formed during treatment, it can be present even when your water looks and tastes normal. Many Marathon homeowners choose to address it as part of a larger effort to improve household water quality, especially in coastal settings where corrosion and local well or cistern systems may also affect plumbing.

You won’t see dibromoacetic acid in a glass, yet utilities monitor it as part of a regulated group of disinfection byproducts and concentrations can change with source water and treatment practices. Boiling isn’t a reliable way to remove it because it’s dissolved in the water. For homeowners in Marathon — whether on municipal supply or a private well — a whole-house approach treats every tap, so showers, laundry and kitchen water are all addressed rather than only the point-of-use fixtures.