CENTERBURG — The Central Ohio Joint Fire District will conduct hydrant flushing and flow testing in the area starting Monday, May 15, at 8 a.m. The work will be completed by Saturday, May 20. Below are some frequently asked questions. The district apologizes for any inconvenience while this is being performed.
Why does the Fire Department perform hydrant flushing?
Hydrant flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants. It’s a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of the DelCo’s water distribution system. It ensures adequate water flow is available to firefighters, residents and businesses. It also helps maintain the DelCo’s water clarity and quality by clearing iron and mineral deposits from the water mains (distribution pipes).
What are the effects of hydrant flushing?
Hydrant flushing helps ensure water quality and helps avoid random bouts of rusty water if there is a high demand for water, such as a major firefighting effort or high usage during a sustained drought.
Sometimes hydrant flushing can make makes the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and mineral deposits in the water get stirred up.
Why is my water rust/tea-colored from the hydrant flushing? Is the water safe?
If hydrant flushing makes the water temporarily appear rust-colored, it is still safe to use and consume, however it may stain laundry.
The main component of the discoloration of the water is caused by iron deposits from inside the water mains. The source of the iron is naturally occurring from ground water wells and deposits in the ductile iron pipe that make up the underground water system.
How come my water is discolored, but my neighbor didn’t notice any discoloration?
If you were home when the flushing was going on and you turned on your water, it may be discolored because you are drawing in the water as the city’s system is flushing it and stirring up the minerals and iron.
If your neighbors were not home all day and returned home in the evening and turned on their tap when no flushing was occurring, they most likely will not notice any discoloration.
My water is discolored. What should I do?
Wait until flushing has subsided in your area then run the cold-water tap until the water runs clear. If you have a water softener and are experiencing discolored water, place the unit into regeneration or cleaning mode after hydrant flushing is completed in your area. Remember, rust-colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry.
How often is hydrant flushing done?
Hydrant flushing is performed two times a year – once in the spring and once in the fall.
Tips for minimizing water discoloration during hydrant flushing operations:
• If possible, limit your water use.
• Wait until flushing has subsided in your area, then run the cold-water tap until the water runs clear.
• If you have a water softener and are experiencing discolored water, place the unit into regeneration or cleaning mode after hydrant flushing is completed in your area.
• Remember, rust-colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.
For more information, contact the Central Ohio Joint Fire District at 740-625-5646 or 740-504-8640.
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