Hydrant Flushing Operations in the Old Town Water District
The hydrant-flushing program is very important to the maintenance of the
Districts
domestic water
distribution system. Each year, Old Town Water District water technicians
systematically open hydrants throughout the city to allow water to flow at a
high velocity through the distribution main lines. This operation serves the
following purposes:
● Enhances water quality by removing sediments from
inside the main line and flushing them out through the hydrant.
● Identifies any malfunctions of the hydrants and related
valves.
● Helps determine weaknesses in the water distribution
system.
● identifies inadequate water volumes and pressures in
the main lines.
Maintains Water Quality - The flushing will help to keep the mains cleaned and
flushed out of sediment or other debris that could eventually have a negative
effect on the quality of water (including taste and odor). This is especially
important on side streets and dead-end lines that only see low and/or one-way
flows.
Verifies Hydrant Operations - The regular operation of all hydrants in the
system will confirm their proper operation and allow for identification of
hydrants and valves needing maintenance.