NJ American Water Plans 2024 Flushing In West Orange

WEST ORANGE, NJ — It’s almost “spring cleaning” time for New Jersey American Water. And West Orange will be among the towns where the utility company will be performing annual water main flushing this year.

The utility provider announced that it will kick off its 2024 flushing schedule this week, with work lasting until the fall.

In West Orange, flushing is tentatively scheduled for May 12, May 17, May 19 and May 24.

What is “water main flushing?” According to New Jersey American Water:

“Flushing involves simultaneously opening fire hydrants in a specific area to create increased water flows. This routine flushing program also includes flushing blowoff valves on dead-end water mains throughout the system.”

Residents may experience temporary water discoloration or pressure loss while flushing is taking place, the utility provider said.

“Flushing our system is an important, routine process that helps us clean out any mineral deposits or sediment that may have built up over time inside the pipes,” New Jersey American Water President Mark McDonough said.

“While we’re flushing, we also take the opportunity to check our water pressure and fire flows in the system and confirm our hydrants are operational,” McDonough added.

McDonough noted that the hydrant flushing program is an annual requirement of the Water Quality Accountability Act.

DISCOLORED WATER: WHAT TO DO

What should you do if your water is discolored? Run cold water until it clears up, New Jersey American Water suggested.

Other advice includes:

• Sign up and opt-in for general alerts to be notified when flushing takes place
• 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

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