Water

Why is the Township flushing the watermains?

The Township cleans watermains to improve water quality by removing sediment. Water travels slowly through the mains, causing sediment to settle at the bottom and build up over time. A change in direction or rate of flow of the water in the mains—such as due to watermain breaks or hydrant use for firefighting—can disturb the sediment and discolour the water.

How are the watermains cleaned?

Most watermains are flushed by forcing water through them at a high speed and then discharging it through hydrants. This water flow scours and cleans sediment from inside the mains. The hydrant is left open until the water runs clear.

How long does it take to flush the watermains on each street?

Flushing takes from 30 minutes to an hour.

How will I know when you are flushing watermains on my street?

The Township will notify residents on social media through X (Twitter) and Facebook.
  

Can I use my water when the watermains are being flushing on my street?

It is best to avoid using water while the watermains on your street are being cleaned. Using water or flushing the toilet could draw sediment into the water pipes in your building, and into water filters, washing machines and hot water tanks. Turn off any time-delayed water systems, such as dishwashers, coffee makers and lawn sprinklers.

Will I notice anything different after the watermains are flushed?

Your water may be discoloured. Water is sometimes discoloured after watermain cleaning, but this should not last long. Do not use discoloured water for any purposes that require clean water, such as preparing food and beverages, medical and dental procedures or laundry.

To test the water for use after watermain flushing:

• Turn on a cold water tap and let the water run for a few minutes. Do not choose a tap that has a water filter connected to it to avoid having sediment clog the tap. Do not use a hot water tap since it could draw sediment into your hot water tank.
• Catch some water in a light-coloured cup or container to see if it is clear. You can use your water if it is clear.
• If the water doesn't clear in five minutes, wait two hours and try again.  

What if someone drinks the water when it’s discoloured?

Drinking discoloured water should be safe, although it may not smell, taste or look pleasant. 

What else might I notice about my water after the watermains are flushed?

Immediately after the cleaning, you may notice that water is cloudy or has a chlorine smell.

• Cloudy water. Water is cloudy when air gets into it and makes tiny bubbles. These bubbles are harmless and will disappear if you let the water sit for a few minutes.
• Chlorine smell.  Enough chlorine will be added to the water to keep it safe. You can remove the chlorine taste and smell by filling a container with water and keeping it in the fridge for drinking. Much of the chlorine will dissipate from the water overnight.  

How will the Township monitor the water quality during the flushing program?

Township of Wilmot staff will randomly collect samples and test water quality from hydrants, homes and businesses during the flushing program. 
 

Can the Township flush the watermains at night?

It is safer for staff to work on the streets in daylight. Also, it is easier in the daylight to see when all the sediment has been flushed out and the water is running clear. 
 

Does watermain flushing waste water?

The Township uses a unidirectional flushing technique, which uses 40-per-cent less water than conventional flushing. 
 

Where will the water used in the flushing program be drained?

The Township will discharge the water into the street catch basins. We will be using an environmentally friendly product, sodium thiosulphate, to remove the chlorine from the water before it’s discharged. 
 

Do other municipalities have similar watermain flushing programs?

Many municipalities have some type of flushing program to clean their watermains. This is considered the best way to improve water quality and increase the reliability of the distribution system. 
 

Who pays for the watermain flushing program?

Funds from the water utility rates will pay for this program. Water rates will not be increased to pay for this maintenance program.