Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant Flushing Operations

Annual hydrant-flushing is an important part of domestic water distribution system maintenance. Each year Maintenance Division utility crews systematically open hydrants throughout the City to allow water to flow at high velocity through distribution mainlines. This operation serves the following purposes:

• Enhances water quality by removing sediments from inside the mainline and flushing them out through the hydrant.
• Identifies malfunctions of hydrants and related valves.
• Helps determine weaknesses in the water distribution system.
• Identifies inadequate water volume and pressure in mainlines.
• Helps determine fire flow at the hydrant. 

You may encounter the following conditions during hydrant flushing operations:

• A temporary drop in the water pressure to your home or business.
• Rusty brown or cloudy water. Discolored water is not harmful; these conditions will subside a few hours after flushing is completed.

Helpful information to remember after the flushing operation is complete:

• Open the cold water faucets and let the water flow until it is clear. Turn off the faucets.
• Open the hot water faucets and let the water flow until it is clear. Turn off the faucets.
• When both hot and cold water are clear, the water is ready for use as normal.
• Check the faucet screens for trapped particles.

If you have additional questions, please Contact Maintenance Division at 503-873-6359.