To protect the water utility systems serving your Hoosier home or business, Indiana American Water performs regular preventive maintenance of its treatment and distribution systems. One essential component of preventive maintenance for water systems is flushing hydrants – in fact, you may have seen a news release or advertisement from us when it has been performed in the past.
Here is some additional information on why we do it, and how you can prepare for it.
What Is Water Main Flushing?
The flushing process involves moving water systemically through the water distribution system to clean the line. The increased flow rate of the water scours the pipe’s inner walls to remove sediment and debris that has built up over time. Water is then discharged through select hydrants.
Why Is Hydrant Flushing Performed?
Hydrant flushing is one component of preventive maintenance for water utility systems and is typically performed annually in communities across Indiana. Flushing fire hydrants in communities serves several important functions including:
- Testing water flow and water pressure from the fire hydrant to ensure it will be adequate in times of emergency
- Removing loose sediment, biofilm and scale that has accumulated in the piping to improve water quality
- Removing potential contamination from water supplies in areas where there is a break in a water main or where another system issue has occurred
- Ensuring proper operation of water distribution system components, including valves and fire hydrants
- Improving the overall carrying capacity of water pipes
- Helping maintain high-quality water
How Homeowners Can Prepare for Hydrant Flushing
Know that your home or business’ water is safe to drink following hydrant flushing in your area. After the process is performed, you may notice some discoloration in your water caused by sediment that has been stirred up. To eliminate discolored water, run the cold-water taps throughout your home or building for a few minutes to clear up your water. Don’t wash clothing until the water runs clear and the discolored water is completely gone to avoid any discoloration to your garments.
Consider drawing water for cooking ahead of time and storing a large bottle of water in the refrigerator for drinking.
Some may think hydrant flushing wastes water – we understand it may look that way when the process is observed. In actuality, hydrant flushing is essential to keeping Hoosier communities safe.
Indiana American Water continuously works to maintain and upgrade the infrastructure serving your home or business. As we upgrade aging infrastructure to improve water delivery, our preventive maintenance regimen works to protect these upgrades and existing infrastructure to ensure they are in service for their expected lifespan.
Indiana American Water Is Committed to Clean, Safe Water
To find out when we’re flushing in your area, visit indianaamwater.com and select the “Alerts” notification at the top of the page. Flushing schedules are posted as they become available, so check back periodically for changes or if you don’t see your community listed.
To learn more about how we work to ensure the quality and safety of your drinking water, visit us online at https://amwater.com/inaw/water-quality/water-safety.