New Jersey American Water will be conducting annual hydrant flushing throughout Maplewood from April 13 through April 26, bringing that annual phenomenon of brown water from the faucet.
The water company reports that the discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not affect water quality and that no health hazards are associated with discolored water from hydrant flushing. (See Customer Tips below for more instructions on dealing with the flushing.)
Each year, New Jersey American Water scrubs the pipes in the nearly 200 communities it serves as an essential part of its system maintenance program.
To cleanse the system, New Jersey American Water systematically opens its fire hydrants to increase water flows, in essence, flushing minerals and deposits from the pipes. While flushing the system won’t interrupt water service, customers may notice a temporary drop in water pressure or discolored water. This is normal. If this happens, simply let your water run until it is clear.
Customer Tips
- Avoid running your tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher while crews are flushing in your area.
- If discolored water occurs, simply run the cold water for a few minutes until it clear. This will allow the sediment to work its way through your pipes.
- Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap before doing laundry or running the dishwasher. NOTE: If your laundry becomes stained, DO NOT PUT YOUR LAUNDRY IN THE DRYER. Rewash clothes immediately using detergent and add a rust remover. Most rust removers can also be used on stained fixtures.
- In some cases, slight discoloration might linger for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not affect water quality. No health hazards are associated with discolored water from hydrant flushing.
- If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.
