Fort Collins fire hydrant flushing could make water cloudy. Here's where, what to expect
It's once again time for the city to flush its water distribution system in downtown areas of Fort Collins, and that means residents' water could temporarily look different or water pressure might be reduced.
The city will begin flushing on Monday, April 1, and the work will continue on weekdays for four weeks, weather permitting, according to a news release from the city.
The flushing area is located within Laporte Avenue on the north and Laurel Street on the south, from Grandview Avenue on the west to Peterson Street on the east.
During flushing, fire hydrants are opened and water flows through at high speeds to clean the pipes and remove sediments that affect taste and color, the news release said.
"Flushing is an essential preventative maintenance strategy for the water distribution system, helps maintain water quality and keeps our water fresh," it stated.
Generally, the flushing will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., but in downtown areas it will begin at 5 a.m.
The city says the the flushing process doesn’t typically interrupt water service, but it can happen. Instead, a decrease in water pressure is more common.
Cloudy or discolored water due to the flushing is possible but not harmful, though it may stain laundry, the city says. It recommends residents:
Wait until flushing is complete to do laundry.
Remove faucet aerators or filters.
Run cold water for five to 10 minutes, continuing until the water is clear. If it's not improving, turn off the water, wait 30 minutes and repeat. You can also run the garden hose, weather permitting, until the water clears. It's safe to use this water on plants and landscape.
Call 970-221-6700 to report any concerns.
For more information, visit fcgov.com/hydrant-flushing, call 970-212-2900 or V/TDD 711.
This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fort Collins to flush water system. Here's where, when
