One reason for choosing chloramines as a disinfectant is to?

Choosing chloramines as a disinfectant is primarily motivated by their ability to reduce the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs). THMs are byproducts that form when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water during the disinfection process. By using chloramines, which are a combination of chlorine and ammonia, the formation of these harmful compounds is minimized. This reduction is significant for water utilities aiming to meet safety regulations and improve water quality for consumers.

In contrast, using chloramines does not increase chlorine levels in the water supply, nor does it enhance the taste, which can be influenced by numerous factors including the source water and additional treatment steps. While maintenance costs might be a consideration, the primary purpose of chloramines in water treatment is tied to the management of disinfection byproducts like THMs, making the reduction of these compounds a critical factor in their selection as a disinfectant.