ADVISORY: Hydrant Flushing in Cranford

Annual hydrant flushing, in order to clean pipes, has begun in Cranford earlier this week.

Police reported that the hydrant flushing would be conducted on Monday, May 11, and through June 5 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

“Each year, New Jersey American Water scrubs our pipes in the nearly 200 communities we serve,” according to New Jersey American Water. “This is an essential part of our system maintenance program, because it helps us to continue to provide you with high-quality water service.”

Opening the fire hydrants allows NJAW to “flush” any minerals or deposits from the pipes, the water company said. The hydrant flushing should not disrupt water service to residents, however, they may notice a temporary drop in water pressure or discolored water.

Discolored water is both fairly normal during hydrant flushing and harmless. It may occur because sediment in water mains gets stirred up when the flow of water in the mains changes. If residents experience discolored water, simply run the water until it is clear.

NJAW provided residents with some tips regarding hydrant flushing:

• Avoid running your tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher while crews are flushing in your area.
• If discolored water occurs, simply run the cold water for a few minutes until it clear. This will allow the sediment to work its way through your pipes.
• Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap before doing laundry or running the dishwasher. NOTE: If your laundry becomes stained, DO NOT PUT YOUR LAUNDRY IN THE DRYER. Rewash clothes immediately using detergent and add a rust remover. Most rust removers can also be used on stained fixtures.
• In some cases, slight discoloration might linger for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not affect water quality. No health hazards are associated with discolored water from hydrant flushing.
• If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.