The free residual chlorine levels in water should typically be maintained between which values?

Maintaining free residual chlorine levels between 0.2 and 0.5 mg/L is essential for effective disinfection in water treatment processes. Chlorine is used to kill harmful bacteria and pathogens that can cause waterborne diseases, ensuring that the water is safe for consumption. A concentration within this range balances sufficient disinfection while minimizing the risk of chlorine-related taste and odor issues that can arise at higher levels.

Levels below 0.2 mg/L may not provide enough disinfection, leading to potential health risks due to insufficient pathogen removal. Conversely, concentrations above 0.5 mg/L can result in undesirable effects such as taste complaints or the formation of disinfection byproducts, which may pose their own health risks. Therefore, the 0.2 to 0.5 mg/L range provides an optimal compromise for maintaining water quality standards while ensuring public health safety.