Hydrant Flushing Facts & Frequently Asked Questions

You have probably seen it many times and thought to yourself, “what a waste of good clean water!” Flushing hydrants can be frustrating to residents. While it may seem like a waste of good clean water, flushing of hydrants is essential to keeping your water safe and maintain the integrity of a pipe network. Flushing hydrants can be done to not only test the fire flow capacity in the event of a fire, but also to remove sediment and rust from the water.

Why does the city perform hydrant flushing?

Hydrant flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants.  It’s a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of the City’s water distribution system.  It ensures adequate water flow is available to fire fighters, residents and businesses.  It also improves water quality by clearing iron and other mineral deposits from the water mains.

What are the effects of hydrant flushing?

Hydrant flushing helps ensure water quality and helps avoid random bouts of rusty water if there is a high demand for water, caused by a major firefighting effort or water main break.

During the flushing of a hydrant, some customers may notice reduced water pressure and flow.

Why is my water rust/tea-colored from the hydrant flushing?  Is the water safe?

Sometimes hydrant flushing can make the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and other mineral deposits in the water mains get stirred up.  There is no health hazard associated with discolored water.  Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however it may stain laundry.

When will they be flushing hydrants in my area?

Hydrant flushing will begin April 21st and continue for about a week, depending on the weather, until complete. Please see the map below to know when we will be flushing the hydrants in your area.

I live on the west side and the City is flushing hydrants on the east side.  How come my water is discolored?

Sometimes residents who live beyond the limits of the area where hydrant flushing is currently being performed, may notice rust-colored water.  This can occur because the opening of a hydrant can cause water to run in the opposite direction than normal.

How come my water is discolored, buy my neighbor didn’t notice my discoloration? 

If the water inside a home or business is turned on while hydrant flushing is going on, discolored water may enter your plumbing.  If a neighbor did not use water during the day, they most likely will not notice any discoloration. 

My water is discolored.  What should I do?

Wait until flushing has subsided in your area then run a cold water tap until the water runs clear. 

Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry.  If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.

If you notice the water flushing crew is near your property, refrain from using water, and delay washing clothes as much as possible.

How often is hydrant flushing done?

Hydrant flushing will be performed two times a year – once in the Spring and once in the Fall.  The work is generally done between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. 

Further questions can be answered by calling City Hall at 507-842-5936 or emailing clerk@BrewsterMN.us