New England had about 3% more heating degree days from December through February, compared with the same period of 2013-14, but December’s HDD total was about 14% less than December 2013, while this February’s HDD total was about 22% more than February 2014.
Once coagulants have done their work, the next stage often involves disinfection, crucial for eliminating harmful pathogens that may cause waterborne diseases. Chlorine is one of the most commonly used disinfectants, effective against viruses, bacteria, and some protozoa. It can be added in the form of gas or liquid, and its residual effect continues to provide protection even after treatment. Alternative disinfectants include ozone and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Ozone is a strong oxidizing agent that not only kills pathogens but also helps remove color and odors from water. UV radiation, on the other hand, is a chemical-free method that inactivates microorganisms by damaging their DNA.