The Mount Olive Township Water Department works very hard to deliver our customers quality water that meets all Federal and State standards. Hydrant Flushing is a program we have in place to help maintain those standards. All Township- owned water systems are scheduled for flushing beginning the week of April 15, 2024. The information provided in this bulletin addresses some of the more commonly asked questions concerning hydrant flushing and should help to give our customers insight into why we perform this program. If you have any further questions or experience problems, feel free to contact Michael Lata at (973) 584 -7086 between the hours of 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
What is hydrant flushing?
Hydrant flushing is the process of opening each fire hydrant and forcing water through the mains of our distribution system to dislodge small particles of rust and sediment that have built up over time. Although the sediment does not pose as a health risk, it can result in discolored water when water travels through the mains during periods of peak demand. Hydrant flushing is an essential function of the Water Department to help maintain the delivery of quality water to its customers.
How often does hydrant flushing need to be done?
The frequency of hydrant flushing varies from one water system to the next depending on each system’s characteristics. The Mount Olive Water Department performs this program two/three times per year, usually during months when the demand for water is low. Our flushing program also includes the ongoing process of testing and maintaining fire hydrants. Our hydrant testing is combined with the flushing program so that the amount of water lost during the process is minimized. Water conservation practices apply to the water purveyor the same as they would apply to the customer.
Is hydrant flushing going to interrupt my water service?
No. The Mount Olive Water Department flushes water mains during off-peak hours to alleviate any inconvenience to its customers. However, customers may experience discolored water for short periods of time while flushing is being done in their neighborhoods. To minimize the impact of hydrant flushing, residents are advised to refrain from using water during this period, including dishwasher, washing machines, and any faucets in addition to flushing their own plumbing, by taking the following steps.
- Start outside the home at the exterior hose bib/faucet and open the hose bib/faucet to the “full open” position. Allow the exterior water line to run for at least 2 minutes, or up to 10 minutes until the water runs clear. Be sure to close the hose bib/faucet when you are done.
- Inside the home, remove any aerators from the kitchen and bathroom faucets prior to beginning the flush which will eliminate the chance of sediment getting stuck in the aerator screen.
- Once the aerators are off, open all COLD water taps inside the home to the “full open” position, including kitchen, bathroom, and shower faucets. Allow all interior COLD water taps to run for at least 2 minutes, or up to 10 minutes, until the water runs clear. Close all COLD water taps.
- Once the COLD water taps are closed, open all HOT water taps in the “full open” position, including kitchen, bathroom, and shower faucets. Allow all interior HOT water taps to run for at least 2 minutes, or up to 10 minutes, until the water runs clear. Close all HOT water taps.
- Reinstall the faucet aerators if you have them.
Any discoloration will disappear rapidly if you keep the water running. Wait until the water clears up before you engage in consumption or washing clothes and dishes.
How long will this take place?
The Mount Olive Water Department anticipates completion of the program within two weeks. Any water discoloration you may experience should end by Friday, April 26, 2024.