Periodically, the Public Works Department opens fire hydrants throughout the City and allows the water to flow through the pipes. The hydrant-flushing program is very important to the maintenance of the City's water system.
It serves the following purposes:
- Checks for closed valves and weak flows in the water mains
- Flushes sediments from mainline pipes (which enhances water quality)
- Helps find weaknesses in the water system
- Verifies ample flow for fire fighting
- Verifies the proper operation of fire hydrants and valves
Hints During Hydrant Flushing
- Do not wash white laundry during this period (wait until cold AND hot water are clear before laundering whites).
- Fill a bottle with water and store it in the refrigerator to use for drinking or cooking.
- Flush your hot water tanks after the cold water clears.
- There may be a temporary drop in water pressure at this time.
- Water may be rusty or cloudy. Discolored water is not harmful and will clear up in a few hours.