By 1808Delaware
Residents in Westerville can expect to see crews at work later this month as the City launches its annual hydrant flushing program, a routine but important effort to maintain water quality and system reliability.
The program will begin Sunday, April 26, and continue through Friday, May 8, operating around the clock as crews work their way through more than 2,500 hydrants across the city.
What the Program Does
Hydrant flushing is a standard maintenance practice that involves opening fire hydrants to create a strong flow of water through the system. This process helps remove sediment and mineral buildup that naturally accumulates in water mains over time. In addition to improving water clarity, crews also inspect hydrants and valves to ensure they are functioning properly in case of emergency.
Each hydrant in Westerville is flushed once per year as part of this system-wide effort.
What Residents Should Expect
During flushing in your neighborhood, you may notice temporary changes in your water:
- Discoloration: Water may appear brownish due to stirred-up sediment
- Pressure fluctuations: Brief drops in water pressure can occur
- Air in lines: Occasional sputtering from faucets
These effects are temporary and not harmful. If discoloration occurs, residents are advised to:
- Run cold water from a tap for several minutes until it clears
- Run a rinse cycle on washing machines before doing laundry
Track Progress in Real Time
The City has made it easy to follow along with the program’s progress. Residents can view a live, interactive dashboard showing which areas have already been flushed and which are upcoming:
https://www.westerville.org/services/public-service/water-distribution/hydrant-flushing-program
(Note: If the link does not open directly, it can be copied into your browser.)
Questions or Concerns
For more information or to find out when flushing will occur in your area, residents can contact the Westerville Department of Public Service at (614) 901-6740. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
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