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Hydrant Flushing
A hydrant testing and flushing program is very important to the maintenance of a domestic water distribution system. Each year, water technicians systematically open hydrants throughout the Village to gauge flows and to allow water to flow at a high velocity through the distribution mainlines. This creates a scouring action in the pipe and dislodges fine sediment particles that have accumulated in the pipe.
Regular Flushing
Regular flushing serves the following purposes:
- Enhances long term water quality by removing sediments from inside the mainline and flushing them out through the hydrant.
- Identifies malfunctions of the hydrant and related valve issues.
- Identifies inadequate water volumes and pressures in the mainline.
- Identifies weakness in the water distribution system and locations where flow pressures may require valve inspections.
- Helps determine fire flows at the hydrant.
Possible Conditions
You may encounter the following conditions during hydrant flushing operations:
- A temporary drop in water pressure to your residence or place of business.
- Rusty brown or cloudy water.
- Do not wash white or light-colored laundry during the flushing operations.
- Do not use the dishwasher during flushing operations.
- Do not turn on the faucets, hot or cold during flushing operations.
- Drive carefully through the work zone where hydrants are being flushed.
- These conditions will subside after the flushing is completed.
Final Steps
After the flushing operation is completed:
- 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.
- Wash a load or two of dark-colored clothes first.