Why We Flush Water Mains

Members of the City of Port Townsend’s Water Department conduct annual flushing of the City’s water distribution system. While it may appear that water is being wasted, this process is necessary to create and maintain high water quality for our customers. There are several benefits from a properly implemented water main flushing program.

Flushing water mains:
• Removes sediment in the lines
• Improves the disinfecting power of Chlorine
• Verifies the proper operation of hydrants and hydrant valves in the system
• Helps operators evaluate flow available to each hydrant
• Helps refresh the quality of water throughout the system

During the flushing process, our operators will perform routine inspections and maintenance on water mains, valves, hydrants and blowoffs. Preventative maintenance procedures such as these will help to keep our system operating properly and will minimize interruptions in service. Flushing can remove water from areas of the distribution system that have low water use, since the older water may have developed color.  Flushing restores fresh water and residual chlorine. It is important to note that during the flushing process, you might experience a difference in the water pressure in your faucets as well as some discoloration in the water.  Sediment from the pipelines may cause short term but harmless changes in the appearance to the water. If the water has a brownish color it can usually be eliminated by running taps for a few minutes.  We appreciate your patience during this necessary procedure.