Fire Hydrant Flushing In Millburn May Cause Discolored Water: Here's What To Do

MILLBURN, NJ — Fire hydrants save lives, so they need to be tested from time to time, and cleared of sediment.

Around Millburn, you may see hydrants being flushed through the end of this month. This could result in discolored water, or low water pressure.

New Jersey American Water recently announced its annual flushing schedule for 2023 for the Essex County towns it serves, including Millburn.

According to the company, it was set to begin flushing in Millburn April 2 and continue through April 28.

According to NJAW, “Flushing involves simultaneously opening fire hydrants in a specific area to create increased water flows."

“Flushing our system helps to clean out any mineral deposits or sediment that may have built up over time inside the pipes,” said Thomas Shroba, vice president of operations. “While we’re flushing, we also check our hydrants to confirm they are operational and check fire flows in the system,” Shroba said.

Flushing will also be conducted in other Essex County towns served by NJAW – including Cedar Grove, Irvington, Maplewood, and North Caldwell. See the schedules here.

What Should You Do?

There could be low pressure or discolored water during flushing, the company said. They recommended running cold water until it's clear.

Other recommended steps include:

• Draw water for cooking prior to the flushing period
• Store a large bottle of water in the refrigerator for drinking
• Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher
• If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check faucet screens for trapped particles

“In addition to continuously investing in our infrastructure, essential maintenance activities such as our hydrant flushing program are key to providing our customers with high-quality drinking water, and it is an annual requirement of the Water Quality Accountability Act,” Shroba said.

New Jersey American Water provides water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.8 million people.