ANNOUNCEMENT – CITY WIDE HYDRANT FLUSHING PROGRAM
The City of West Columbia is committed to delivering the safest and highest quality of water to your tap each and every time you turn it on, and our Fire Hydrant Flushing Program is one of several processes designed to help us meet that commitment. City personnel will begin weekly fire hydrant flushing and testing on March 28, 2016. The fire hydrant flushing program will be performed on an ongoing basis and will take place at different locations throughout the year in order to improve overall water quality. Throughout the year, you may notice water running along the street where water department personnel are flushing hydrants. Hydrants are often left unattended, but don’t be alarmed; personnel will return to turn them off once the flushing process is finished.
Fire hydrant flushing is a routine maintenance process where hydrants are turned on to allow water to flow for several hours in order to remove potential sediment buildup in the water mains and to keep the mains flowing in an efficient manner. Flushing also helps to circulate the water to help prevent stagnant water problems from developing ensuring the highest quality drinking water to your tap.
During the flushing process you may notice discolored water as the sediments are agitated. This in no way affects the safety of the water. If discoloration occurs, turn on all household faucets and let them run for several minutes to help clear the pipes.
Fire hydrant flushing is also performed on hydrants to determine the flow and to document pressure before and during hydrant flow testing. This procedure is required to ensure hydrants are adequate and operational for firefighting.
Here are a few commonly asked questions and steps to take when fire hydrant flushing occurs in your neighborhood.
Q. Why does my water look discolored after hydrant flushing?
A. When a hydrant is opened, there will always be temporary incidences of discolored water containing fine sediment particles. There is no health hazard associated with this discolored water. It is safe to drink and continues to meet all federal and state drinking water standards. Allow a few minutes but up to 4 hours for discoloration to dissipate. If the discoloration persists for more than twenty-four (24) hours, please contact our Water Treatment Plant at (803) 794-7696.
Q. Is the Water Department the only ones who flush fire hydrants and lines?
A. No, Fire Departments are also required to flush hydrants when they are testing them to ensure adequate flow and pressure is available.
Q. When does flushing normally occur?
A. The City flushes throughout the year so that the water does not stagnate in less active parts of the water distribution system.
Q. How does hydrant flushing affect me?
A. One of the most common complaint during and just after hydrant flushing is discolored water. Here’s what you should do if hydrant flushing is taking place in your neighborhood:
If possible, avoid using water while the hydrant flushing is taking place. By not taking water from the tap or running appliances that use water (dishwashers and washing machines), you can prevent discolored water from entering your household plumbing altogether.
Avoid doing laundry while hydrant flushing is taking place. The discolored water can sometimes stain fabrics. Wait until water runs clear at the tap before using your washing machine, and wash a load of dark clothes first. If laundry appears to be stained, keep articles wet and do not dry them. Rewash the load using a stain/rust remover (such as a product called “Rust Out”). Do Not Use bleach on stained laundry as bleach will “set” the stain.
If you encounter discolored water following hydrant flushing, open the cold water taps throughout your home (bathroom sinks and tubs, kitchen faucets, etc.) for 5 to 10 minutes or until water clears. This allows discolored water to work its way out of your household plumbing.
If, after hydrant flushing, your water pressure or volume seems low, clean faucet screens to remove silt and mineral sediment that may be obstructing water flow.
Thank you for your cooperation as we do the important and necessary job of maintaining the integrity of our water system in order to continue delivering safe and high water quality to your home!
