HYDRANT FLUSHING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

WHY IS HYDRANT FLUSHING NECESSARY?

Hydrant flushing enhances water quality by flushing sediment from the mainline pipes, verifies the proper operation of hydrants and valves, and maintains firefighting capability.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN COLUMBIA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT IS FLUSHING HYDRANTS IN MY AREA?

If you see a crew flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or the dishwasher until the flushing is done.  If you see hydrant flushing crews working in the area, please drive carefully and treat them like any other road construction crew.

WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER HYDRANT FLUSHING?

If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that causes discoloration.  If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes.  After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes.  If the water is clear, it’s okay to use.  If not, let cold water run for several minutes to help clear it up.  In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours.  This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect the taste or water quality.

Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times.  Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first.

If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

WHY DOES MY WATER LOOK FUNNY AFTER HYDRANT FLUSHING?

When a hydrant is opened, there will be temporary incidences of discolored water while fine sediment particles are flushed out.  There is no health hazard associated with the discolored water.  Allow a few hours for discoloration to dissipate.  To verify water is clear, run your cold-water tap for a few minutes.

Colmbia Valley Water District

6229 Azure Way

Maple Falls, WA 98266

PHONE:  (360)599-1699

FAX:       (360)599-1854

EMAIL:   admin@cv-wd.com

 

Our Business Hours

Mon, Wed, Fri :

08:00 am - 12:00 pm

01:00 pm - 04:30 pm

After Hours Emergency

 

 Pager:  (360)714-3558

(Dial your phone number after the beep.)