We will be flushing water mains along Old Sudbury Road (Monday, December 6, 2021, during the approximately hours of 10 am – 3 pm) in and attempt to draw out mineral sediment and improve water pressure.

An essential part of our system’s maintenance program is to flush hydrants every spring and fall in an effort to clear our water mains of sediment and mineral build-up. This practice improves water quality and helps to extend the life of our water mains. There may be a slight drop in pressure or noticeable discoloration of the water from the minerals and sediments that are being flushed out. During the flushing operation in your neighborhood, you will be able to see our crew flushing the water mains through hydrants and ends of water main pipes commonly called blow-offs. The crews will usually direct the water being flushed into appropriate areas to avoid sediment erosion or localized pooling of water, but you may notice water on the street or roadway. Kindly note, mineral sediment naturally builds up on the inside of water mains, it is not harmful to your health.

What Should I Do If My Water Appears Dirty After the Designated Flushing Time?

  • Run a cold water tap closest to your meter (usually found in the basement) or a first-floor sink or bathtub faucet for up to 15 minutes, Keep the tap open until the water runs clear.
  • If you have trouble seeing if the water is clear, fill a light or white-colored cup or container to view the water. If the water coming from the tap is not clear after running for 15 minutes, wait 30 minutes and try again.
  • Milky-looking water: Air bubbles caused by opening and closing water main valves, run a cold tap to draw out the air or pockets.
  • Low water pressure: If water pressure or volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check your faucet screens and home filters for trapped particles.
  • Do not run a tap that has a water filter connected to it or the sediment may clog your filter.
  • Avoid running a hot water tap because it could draw sediment into your hot water tank.
  • If you inadvertently drew discolored water into your home while we are flushing your Zone and staining on fabrics and fixtures occurs, rust removal products are available at most home products stores. The District also keeps a steady supply of Iron Out stain remover on hand at our Administration office located at 199 Raymond Road. Iron out packets are free to all District customers, stop by anytime during regular business hours to pick up a few packets to have on hand should staining occur.

Why Flushing Is Important: 

  • Removes Sediment: Loose sediment and other deposits may slowly build up on the inside of the water mains over time causing discolored water. Flushing at the appropriate velocities can remove these sediments and deposits and will improve taste, odor, and color that may be problematic e.g. naturally occurring iron or manganese deposits in the distribution system may affect the color.
  • Reduces biofilm: Biofilm is a thin layer of microorganisms that can grow on the inside of the distribution piping, A proper scouring velocity must be achieved to effectively minimize biofilm.
  • Maintains Proper Distribution System Operation: Flushing requires the opening and closing of hydrants and valves to ensure that water moves through pipe segments for effective cleaning. This operational practice also provides water operators with the opportunity to identify broken or inoperable valves and hydrants which is important to ensure that they will work properly in an emergency.
  • Improves the Age of the Water in the Distribution System: Flushing can remove water from areas of the distribution system that have low water use. Older water may no longer have the desired chlorine residual.
  • Fire Protection: Flushing allows the assessment of the flow rate available for firefighting purposes.

More Questions About Flushing? Please contact District’s Administration office at 978-443-6602 or email customerservice@sudburywater.com or visit our dedicated flushing