On December 16, 2019, UCF Utilities & Energy Services (UES) will be conducting a water tracer study to analyze and calibrate the university’s potable water flow through more than 20 miles of underground piping on campus. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) requires that UCF provide public notification to describe this study and identify any potential health effects.

For this study, food grade table salt will be added to the potable water, which will cause a slight increase in sodium, chloride, and total dissolved solids (TDS) for up to eight days. These substances can be removed from the water with point-of-use reverse osmosis filters; however, predicted concentrations fall below FDEP-regulated levels, as shown in the table below of estimated values.

Water Study Concentration Values

Water Quality Parameter FDEP-regulated Level (mg/L) Maximum Estimated Concentration During Tracer Study (mg/L)
Sodium 160 55
Chloride 250 80
Total Dissolved Solids 500 300

FDEP regulates the level of sodium found in potable water to protect individuals who are susceptible to sodium-sensitive hypertension, or who have diseases that cause difficulty in regulating body fluid volume. Additionally, individuals on salt-restricted diets can account for their sodium intake, of which drinking water accounts for less than 10 percent.

Health effects are not generally associated with chloride and TDS concentrations below regulated levels. Chloride and TDS affect corrosion and taste, but due to the short duration and minimal increase in concentrations, effects are assumed to be negligible.

For further information, contact UES at (407) 823-6789.