WHY FLUSH HYDRANTS?
The city flushes over 650 hydrants every Spring and Fall to remove iron deposits and sediment from the system. Regular flushing also helps to ensure proper water pressure and aids in our fire fighting capabilities.
SPRING HYDRANT FLUSHING
Spring Hydrant Flushing continues tonight, Wednesday, May 8, at 9:00pm. Tonight all crews will be working in the West End. Residents and businesses in the area may experience some low pressure and/or water discoloration overnight and into the morning. We will be updating the approximate location of flushing daily.
The Long Beach Water Transmission Department conducts hydrant flushing twice a year in the Spring and the Fall. This semi-annual flushing is done to remove sediments from the system and helps to ensure proper water pressure. During this time, you may experience some low pressure or water discoloration, especially when flushing takes place in your neighborhood. The discoloration is from iron, which is naturally present in water and builds up deposits along the inside of our water pipes. During flushing, chlorine residuals will be raised in order to assure safe water quality throughout the distribution system. It poses no threat to your health.
Once the hydrant flushing is complete, the water quality will return to normal.
We schedule hydrant flushing in the evening to avoid as much inconvenience as possible to our residents. The city will make an effort each day to promote the approximate location of where the flushing will take place that night on our website and on social media.
If you have questions regarding information on hydrant flushing please call the Water Transmission Department at 516-431-5694.
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WHY IS MY WATER RUST COLORED AND IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK?
If your water is discolored, it poses no threat to your health. You may choose not to drink the water during the flushing process. We suggest that you keep a pitcher of clean water in your refrigerator.
HOW OFTEN DOES HYDRANT FLUSHING TAKE PLACE?
Hydrant flushing is performed two times a year—once in the Spring and once in the Fall.
CAN I DO MY LAUNDRY?
Avoid doing laundry between 9PM and 9AM when hydrants are being flushed. Run cold water for 2-3 minutes after flushing hours to be sure your water is clear. If clothes become discolored, wash with rust remover.
HOW DOES THIS AFFECT MY WATER?
You may experience some low pressure or water discoloration, especially when flushing takes place in your neighborhood. Once the hydrant flushing is complete, the water quality will return to normal.
WHEN CREWS WILL BE FLUSHING IN MY AREA?
It’s difficult to give you an exact time. Our schedule may change based on weather or other conditions. We will post daily locations on the website and social media.