Water mains are underground pipelines that distribute water to various users including residences, businesses and fire hydrants. Although the water entering the mains meets all state and federal standards, the pipelines must be regularly maintained to avoid deterioration of water quality. Water main flushing is the process of cleaning or “scouring” the inside of the pipes by sending a high-velocity flow of water through the system. This is conducted by opening hydrants and releasing water at the speed of up to 5 feet per second to remove deposits built up inside the mains.

Flushing is a crucial preventative measure that helps to maintain the capacity of the pipe and to protect water quality by removing minerals and sediment deposits from inside the mains. The District regularly flushes its system and notifies its customers of the flushing schedule.

Benefits of Flushing:

• Scouring the inside of pipes with a high-velocity flow of water removes sediment buildup and improves water quality.
• Valves, hydrants and water mains can be inspected.
• The District stays in compliance with requirements set by the California Department of State Water Resources Control Board.

Mains are cleaned by systematically flushing the pipelines at high velocity (5 feet per second) for a few minutes by opening and closing fire hydrants.

Flushing typically occurs in the spring. Customers are notified in advance.