Water Main Flushing
The 2024 Hydrant Flushing Program will begin on Sunday, May 5th in Central Falls.
(click image to enlarge)
Flushing will take place between the hours of 8PM-6AM.
You may experience some discoloration and/or a reduction in pressure.
The discoloration of the water will be temporary and is not harmful.
Running the cold tap for 5-10 minutes should flush out the discoloration.
The purpose of the Hydrant Flushing Program is to improve drinking water quality for residents and businesses.
The Pawtucket Water Supply Board appreciates your patience and understanding!
If you have any questions, please contact us as 401-729-9050.
Continue to check back at this page, and follow the PWSB on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updated flushing locations and dates.
Water Main Flushing
In the warmer months of the year (generally April-November), the PWSB runs the water main flushing program. The purpose of water main flushing via hydrants is to improve water quality throughout the system by removing mineral and sediment buildup from water mains. Another added benefit is the ability to verify proper operation of all hydrants in the system and evaluate the available flow to each hydrant.
In 2021 a new method of water main flushing was implemented, called unidirectional flushing (known as UDF). With UDF, each pipeline is isolated to create flow in a single direction and quickly clean the pipe. By concentrating the flow, UDF creates higher velocities to clear the pipes and requires less water.
Please follow this link to view an informative infographic about the benefits of unidirectional flushing
The unidirectional method will be the preferred option for flushing the distribution system in moving forward, as less water is utilized, and this method scours the inside pipe wall to remove “biofilm”.
Please keep an eye on this page, or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to stay informed about upcoming flushing dates and locations.