Starting on Monday November 6th, the Water Department will begin its fall hydrant flushing program primarily in the South Quinsigamond corridor from Boston Turnpike to Hartford Turnpike and also in the Boston Turnpike area from the Quinsigamond Intersection to Oak St. These areas will also include all adjacent areas and side streets.
The Water Department will start flushing at 4 A.M. on Monday, November 6th until 3 P.M., and continuing work Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. from November 7th and ending on November 17th. We will work to switch off the flushing in the residential areas between 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 A.M., to allow people to get ready for work. These days and hours may vary due to field and weather conditions. Customers may experience a temporary drop in water pressure when flushing is performed. Additionally, discolored or cloudy water may be encountered. The discolored water is not harmful. When the flushing is complete in the area, these conditions should subside. The time to clear in individual service lines will vary depending on field conditions and the amount of sediment in the system. Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Water Department office at 508-841-8506. Listed below are some general guidelines to help assist customers during the flushing process.
Helpful Tips:
- Before the flushing begins:
- Fill a bottle or clean, plastic milk jug with fresh tap water and store it in the refrigerator to use for drinking and/or cooking.
- During the flushing:
- DO NOT wash white or light-colored laundry during the test procedures.
- Refrain from water related activities such as food preparation, if you receive discolored water.
- After the flushing is completed
- Open the cold water faucets and let the water flow until it is clear. Turn off the faucets. If an outside faucet can be used, it is preferable.
- Open the hot water faucets and let the water flow until it is clear. Turn off the faucets.
- When both hot and cold water are clear, the water is ready for use as normal.
- Check the faucet screens for trapped particles.
- Wash a load or two of dark colored clothes first to ensure there is no discoloration.