Star Sewer & Water Spring Hydrant Flushing

Spring Hydrant Flushing

Star Sewer & Water District has over 900 fire hydrants located throughout the district that provide fire protection to homes and businesses, keeping each one in proper working order calls for regular maintenance.

Each spring, the District performs a preventative action known as hydrant flushing which verifies the system has adequate water flow. It also serves a secondary purpose in removing sediment that naturally accumulates in water mains. Flushing this sediment out of the system helps the District ensure the highest water quality standards. Those within the surrounding areas of the flushing point may experience discolored water or pressure irregularity.

Sometimes residents who live beyond the limits of the area where hydrant flushing is currently being performed, may notice rust-colored water.  This can occur because the opening of a hydrant can cause water run in the opposite direction than normal.  However, Water Department personnel use techniques intended to minimize these impacts. 

Flushing will begin on Monday, March 11, 2024. Daily updates on the areas that will be flushed will be updated on the District website (www.starswd.com) under the “News & Updates” section by 4:30 P.M. the day prior to flushing. As with any project, schedules may change dependent on weather, conditions and unforeseen issues.

A few helpful tips:

-Try to limit water usage during the flushing process to avoid bringing the discolored water/sediment into your home. Your tap water may temporarily appear red, brown, or blackish in color. If this occurs, simply run the cold-water faucets in your bathtubs at full stream until the water runs clear.

-To avoid any unwanted sediment build-up in your hot water heater, you should always clear your lines using cold water taps like outside faucets, sinks, and bathtubs.

-Do NOT wash white or light-colored laundry if you are experiencing discolored water. If you develop a problem with rust on laundry items, rust remover is available at the District office free-of-charge. PLEASE NOTE: If your laundry becomes stained, do not put your laundry in the dryer.

-If your faucets seem to be clogged or running slowly, simply remove the screens and rinse them out.

-The water pressure inside your home may also fluctuate at times. This is only temporary and regular water pressure will resume once this flushing period is complete.

Flush times occur between 9 A.M. and 3 P.M., Monday – Wednesday.

We cannot give exact times when flushing has concluded in your area, but it is encouraged to flush your lines, if needed, after 3 P.M. to reduce any change of sediment entering your home.

Residents’ patience and understanding while crews perform this critical water system maintenance work is appreciated.

Signs will be posted in your area when flushing occurs, but the tentative schedule is in the file below titled "2024 Hydrant Flushing Schedule & Maps"