The Central Ohio Joint Fire District (COJFD) will be conducting hydrant flushing and flow testing from Sunday, June 8, to Saturday, June 14, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Hydrant flushing is normally done once a year to ensure adequate water flow for firefighters, residents, and businesses. While the process may cause temporary inconvenience, it ultimately contributes to water quality and safety.
"Hydrant flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants. It’s a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of DelCo’s water distribution system," according to COJFD. "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)."
Residents may notice temporary discoloration in their water, appearing rust or tea-colored. This happens because the process stirs up naturally occurring iron deposits, but the water remains safe to use and consume. However, it may stain laundry, so the residents are advised to take precautions.
Water discoloration affects homes differently. If water is used during the flushing process, it may appear rusty. However, homes where taps are turned on after the flushing has subsided may not experience any discoloration. To minimize the effects, residents should wait until flushing has concluded in their area and then run cold water taps until the water runs clear. For those with a water softener, placing the unit into regeneration or cleaning mode after flushing is recommended.
COJFD serves the communities of Centerburg Village, Hilliar, and Milford Townships in Knox County. It also serves South Bloomfield Township and Sparta Village in Morrow County.
For more information, residents can contact the fire district at (740) 625-5646.
