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:

1. Open the cold water faucets and let the water flow until it is clear. Turn off the faucets.
2. Open the hot water faucets and let the water flow until it is clear. Turn off the faucets.
3. When both hot and cold water are clear, the water is ready for use as normal.
4. Check the faucet screens for trapped particles.
5. Wash a load or two of dark-colored clothes first.