Water normally travels slowly through mains, causing sediment to settle at the bottom and build up over time. The City flushes the watermains by forcing water through them at a high speed and discharging it through hydrants. This water flow scours and cleans any sediment from inside the mains. We leave the hydrant open until the water runs clear.

How will this affect me?

Usually, you will not be aware that flushing is even taking place in your neighbourhood. Flushing is generally conducted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. When flushing is underway, short periods of low pressure and discoloured water may occur. Both will be temporary and water remains safe to use and drink. Please minimize your water use if discoloured water is noticed as the sediments may stain your laundry or plug your household PRV. Businesses that may be affected like hairdressers and laundromats, will be notified in person before the city conducts flushing in their area. To clear your water lines, turn on your cold water tap until the water runs clear.

 How long does it take to flush the watermains on each street?

Flushing time ranges from 30 minutes up to two hours, depending on the amount of piping to be cleaned in the area. 

What should I do if the water is still discoloured after two or three hours?

If this happens, please call the City’s Dogwood Operations Centre at 250-286-4033. 

Why is my water cloudy after flushing?

Water is cloudy when air gets in it and makes tiny bubbles. These bubbles are harmless and will disappear once the water sits for a few minutes. 

Why can't you flush the watermains at night?

It is safer for employees to conduct this work on the streets in daylight. Also, it is easier in the daylight to see when all the sediment has been flushed out and the water is running clear. 

Is watermain flushing a waste of water?

The flushing program is done in spring and fall to avoid putting additional stress on the water system during high demand times (hot summer days). All of the water used to flush watermains is measured, and the City’s unidirectional flushing technique reduces the water needed to clean the system by 40 per cent. 

Where will you drain the water used in the flushing program?

Water is discharged into street catch basins, ultimately ending up in the City’s stormwater system and the ocean. The City uses sodium thiosulphate to neutralize the chlorine from the water before it is discharged. 

Do other cities have similar watermain flushing programs?

Most cities have some type of flushing program to clean their watermains. This is considered the best way to maintain high water quality throughout a distribution system. 

Is this the first time the City of Campbell River has had a watermain flushing program?

The City has always flushed watermains on an as-needed basis to correct water quality problems. This is the first program to flush all the watermains in Campbell River.