Fall hydrant flushing will begin Sunday October 3rd and continue through Friday October 22nd. The utility flushes every hydrant each spring and fall to ensure the proper functionality of the hydrants, remove sediments from the distribution system and to improve overall water quality. The hydrants are flushed during the overnight hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.
It is not unusual to experience discolored water when nearby hydrants are flushed.
Residents are advised to run a COLD water only tap for 5 minutes to check for discoloration prior to doing laundry in October to avoid unexpected staining of clothing. Never run the hot water to check for discoloration.
If you do observe discolored water;
Run a COLD water only tap until the condition clears (usually 15 minutes or less)
Do not run any HOT water until after clear water is confirmed at the cold-water tap. Running hot water will draw discolored water into the water heater making the condition much more difficult to clear.
Do not do laundry until clear water is confirmed at the cold-water tap.
If clothing is inadvertently stained from washing with discolored water, DO NOT DRY the clothes. Drying the clothes will set the stain permanently. Call the utility at (856) 488-7450 during normal business hours and we will provide you with a specially formulated detergent designed to remove these types of stains, FREE OF CHARGE.