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1. What is water main flushing?

Water main flushing is the process of cleaning or “scouring” the interior of water distribution main pipes by sending a rapid flow of water through the main pipes.

2. What are the benefits of flushing?

Reduces bacterial growth

Identifies missing or broken valves
Ensures that fire hydrants are operational

Dislodges and removes sediments and deposit build-up

Reduces taste and odor problems

3. How long does the flushing process take?

The flushing process generally takes 1 - 2 days per neighborhood to complete.

4. What should I do if my water is discolored?

If discoloration occurs, try running only the cold water at one faucet for about 5 minutes and you should see that the water becomes clear. (Note that running the hot water, rather than cold water, pulls from the hot water heater and may delay or cause the water to not run clear.)

If the water doesn’t clear up after 5 minutes, wait for a few hours and try running the cold water only again. If the water is still discolored, please contact us so we can investigate why the water continues to have discoloration. Even if you are in an apartment or don’t pay your water bill direct, it’s important to let us know.

You may call the office at 303-790-4830 or email us.

5. Is the water safe to drink if it is discolored?

If the water is discolored due to minerals, such as iron and manganese, the water remains safe to drink. It does look bad and we cannot blame you for not wanting to drink it. If your water is discolored, try running the cold water for 5-10 minutes. If it doesn’t clear up, please contact ACWWA at 303-790-4830, or email us.

6. Can I still do laundry when the water is discolored?

It is recommended that you do not wash clothes when there is any discoloration in the water to avoid the possibility that it could stain any clothing - especially whites. If you have any further questions and / or continue to experience any ongoing discoloration in your water, please contact ACWWA at 303-790-4830, or via email.

7. What causes red / brown water?

Discoloration of water normally is caused by naturally occurring minerals (primarily iron and manganese) that are flowing with the water. Normally what happens is the minerals, being heavier than water, settle in the bottom of the water pipelines, especially during winter months when water usage is low. Then, when the water flow and pressure through the water pipes increases (due to irrigation, construction, etc.) it stirs up the minerals and they flow with the water and out the faucet. That’s why, to help avoid the issue, we “flush out” the water systems.

8. How much water is used to flush mains?

That depends on many factors, such as main size, system pressure, the amount of sediment and the ability to dispose of the water used in flushing. The water flushed from the mains in the distribution system accounts for only a very small portion, 0.01%, of ACWWA’s total annual consumption.

Protecting water quality is also a critical goal of ACWWA, and the trade-off is to conduct flushing, but using as little water as possible.

9. When will the water mains be flushed in my neighborhood?

ACWWA flushes the water mains approximately once per year, in the spring. Look for signs that flushing will occur at the entrances to your neighborhood. The schedule will be updated frequently.

Occasionally, weather may delay / hinder the flushing process and emergencies may arise where ACWWA’s staff is called away from flushing for a day or two. Please call the office at 303-790-4830 or check ACWWA’s web page for updates.