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Residents
who notice Chester Water Authority crews working at fire
hydrants and see water running into the street may think the
Authority is ignoring its own philosophy on conserving
water. The
process of periodically flushing fire hydrants, however, is
an important preventive maintenance activity.
Although it may
appear to waste water, this process is part of a routine
maintenance program necessary to maintain the integrity of
the water system and to continue to deliver water of the
highest possible quality to our customers.
An
added benefit of hydrant flushing is that our crews can test
and inspect fire hydrants throughout the water distribution
system at the same time.
Chester Water Authority has over 2,000 fire hydrants
that are inspected and tested twice a year during the
flushing process. This
program begins in early spring and continues through late
fall.
Customers
may experience discolored water for short periods of time
while flushing is being done in their neighborhoods.
This discoloration consists primarily of harmless
precipitates and does not affect the safety of the water.
If you experience discoloration in your water after
crews have been flushing in your neighborhood, clear the
pipes in your home by running cold-water faucets for a
minute or two. It
is best to wait until the water is clear before using dish
or clothes washers.
If
you have questions about this program, please contact the
Chester Water Authority Customer Service Department at
610-876-8181 or 800-793-2323. |
