What
is flushing?
When
will flushing be done in my neighborhood?
Why are we
flushing?
Is flushing
a waste of water?
How will
you be affected?
If you are
experiencing discolored water.
What is flushing?
Each spring (April and May) the Utilities Department begins its annual flushing program throughout the Town’s water system with emphasis on dead end water mains. The goal of this program is to ensure water quality is maintained at its optimal level. Flushing is a process by which water is moved through a water pipe at a high velocity so that a scouring action is created. Water is then discharged through a hydrant which in turn removes any material build-up from the pipe. The material removed from this process is harmless and requires no special treatment. Use of this flushing technique is critical to the maintenance of water quality and your water system.
When will flushing be done in my neighborhood?
Flushing normally begins in the northeast quadrant of town, and then proceed to the southeast, northwest, and southwest quadrants, respectively. Flushing will normally occur between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. A Public Notice is also published in the Leesburg Today newspaper prior to the start of flushing and for the entire duration of the program.
During and after flushing, water may appear discolored. If this occurs we recommend that you give it a few hours to clear up then run your cold water faucet for a few minutes to make sure that the water is cleared. The Town regrets any inconvenience the flushing operation may cause.
The Town has been conducting the annual springtime flushing program for 10 years now and the program has resulted in very few complaints.
Why are we flushing?
Because water mains are sized to allow adequate and safe flows for fire protection, water typically is moving through the underground pipes at a low velocity. This slow movement allows mineral deposits, to build up and accumulate in pipes over time. The buildup can restrict water flow in the pipes and contributes to corrosion, water color problems, and inadequate fire flow.
Periodic flushing of water pipes removes the mineral deposits which helps maintain our Town's infrastructure, assures consistent high quality water, and superior firefighting capacity.
Is flushing a waste of water?
No! The amount and cost of water used in flushing is a small price to pay compared to benefits of assuring the quality of your water and maintaining our infrastructure.
How will you be affected?
You probably will not even be aware that flushing is taking place in your neighborhood. Flushing is generally conducted between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Select hydrants in each neighborhood will be opened for water pipe flushing. While the hydrants are open, the homes on that block may experience discolored water or a small drop in water pressure however, your water service should not be interrupted. If you have no water pressure, please notify the Utilities Department at 703-771-2750 as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing discolored water.
Should your water have a reddish, yellow or brown tint, do not be alarmed. It is recommended you do not use the water or do laundry for about two hours. After you have waited, run your faucets for a few minutes to make sure the water is clear at which time you may resume normal water use.
If the water does not clear within a few hours, please notify the Utilities Department at 703-771-2750.
