Long Island American Water Announces Spring Flushing Schedule

LYNBROOK, N.Y. (March 7, 2011) – Long Island American Water will be flushing the water distribution system this spring as part of its commitment to ensuring high-quality water service to its customers.  This essential part of the company’s maintenance program is performed to clear harmless mineral deposits and sediment that may have built up over time inside the pipes.  The process also includes flushing fire hydrants to make sure they are operational and to check flows in the system.

During the months of March, April and May, Long Island American Water will be flushing the system throughout its service areas according to the following schedule:

· March 1 – March 18: North Woodmere, Valley Stream

· March 7 – March 18: Woodmere, Woodsburgh, Hewlett Neck

· March 14 – March 25: Hewlett, Hewlett Bay Park, Hewlett Harbor

· March 21 – April 4: Atlantic Beach, Cedarhurst, Inwood, Lawrence, Meadowmere

· April 4 – April 15: Lakeview, Lynbrook, Malverne, West Hempstead

· April 27 – May 6: Bay Park, East Rockaway, Island Park

· May 2 – May 20: Oceanside

· May 9 – May 27: Baldwin, South Hempstead

· May 16 – May 27: Roosevelt

(Please note that NO FLUSHING will be conducted April 18 through April 26.)

When the system is being flushed, customers may notice a drop in water pressure or may experience discolored water.  This is a normal part of the process.  The company advises customers to let their water run until it is clear.

Long Island American Water offers its customer the following additional tips:

· Mark your calendar to be prepared when the company begins flushing the water mains in your neighborhood.

· Draw water for cooking ahead of time, and store a large bottle of water in the refrigerator for drinking.

· 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.

· If laundry becomes stained, do no put your laundry in the dryer. Rewash clothes immediately using a heavy duty detergent and add a rust remover.  Most rust removers can be used on stained fixtures.

· In some cases, slight discoloration may linger for a few hours.  This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not affect the water quality.

· If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been complete, check faucet screens for trapped particles.

For more information on Long Island American Water’s flushing program, please visit LongIslandamwater.com.

Long Island American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest water supplier in Nassau County, providing water services to approximately 220,000 people. 

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned U.S. water and wastewater utility company.  With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.