Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant Flushing Operations

The hydrant-flushing program is very important to the maintenance of the City's domestic water distribution system. Each year, Public Services systematically open hydrants throughout the City to allow water to flow at a high velocity through the distribution mainlines.

Hydrant Flushing & Waterline Maintenance

Public Services normally flushes hydrants in spring, we flush water lines through the use of fire hydrants, which is an important preventive maintenance activity. Although it may appear to waste water, the process is part of a routine maintenance program necessary to maintain the integrity of the water system allowing us to continue to deliver the highest quality water possible to our customers.

As a result of the line flushing process, residents in the immediate vicinity of the work may experience temporary discoloration of their water and low water pressure. The discoloration consists primarily of harmless silt and air and does not affect the safety of the water. If you experience discoloration in your water after crews have been flushing in your neighborhood, clear the pipes in your home by running all water faucets for a few minutes until it runs clear.

The same philosophy of water line preventive maintenance is one that you should use in your own home to ensure the quality of water inside your home. Your home's water heater should be drained and flushed on a regular basis, according to manufacturers' recommendations, to keep it working effectively and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

view a list of frequently asked questions regarding hydrant flushing (PDF).