Hydrant Flushing In Montclair May Disrupt Pressure, Discolor Water

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The Montclair Water Bureau will begin the fall flushing of fire hydrants on dead-end water mains and on streets which border a neighboring town starting Monday, Sept. 30.

According to a municipal advisory, the flushing will be done during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. It will take approximately three weeks to complete.

The purpose of the program is to flush water mains, removing accumulated sediment in the lines and to operate, lubricate and test fire hydrants to ensure adequate fire protection, officials said.

“This flushing has been moved up a week due to the increase in discolored water coming from Montclair's connection to North Jersey Water District's 72-inch aqueduct last week,” the town’s advisory states. “The discolored water was due to a change in velocity within the aqueduct, which caused naturally occurring mineral buildup to break loose and create the discolored water. Although aesthetically unpleasant, the water is safe.”

There may be unavoidable discoloration of water and some loss of pressure during flushing in your area. Discolored water could occur at any time during the flushing period but more likely when hydrants are flushed in your neighborhood. This will be temporary and should clear up within a short period of time, officials said.

Residents who experience discolored water should open the cold water faucets on the lowest floor of the house and allow the water to run until it clears (usually within 30 minutes). Discolored or cloudy water is potable, but not desirable to use, the township stated.

Residents should make sure that their water is running clear before washing laundry, officials added.

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