Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District kicked off its flushing program this month. Flushing is scheduled to take place in Canyon Lake throughout March between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. This preventative maintenance activity not only verifies that the hydrants in the area are working correctly but it also removes sediments and other deposits that naturally accumulate in water pipes.
The water flushing process forces water through the water main at a high speed. This water is then discharged through hydrants. Water that is flushed through the pipelines travels down into neighborhood gutters and eventually makes its way back to Canyon Lake one of EVMWDs water storage areas for use at a later time.
Customers may notice a temporary reduction in water quality and water pressure in their homes while flushing is in process on their street. When hydrant flushing occurs, customers may observe slightly discolored water coming from their faucets. According to EVMWD, this discoloring is temporary and only affects the appearance of water; it does not cause a health or safety risk.
If water is discolored after water flushing, EVMWD suggests running cold tap water for a few minutes until the water becomes clear. Customers who experience discoloration for a prolonged time or experience a significant loss of water pressure following hydrant flushing should contact EVMWDs Operations Department for assistance at 951-674-3146, ext. 8305.
Regular water flushing is required by the State Water Resources Control Board. In addition, it’s an important part of EVMWDs water maintenance system as it controls bacteria, such as biofilm growth that can occur when water in a pipeline has lower demand; removes many deposits, sediment and other materials that can affect taste and odor; reduces corrosion through scouring the inside of the water pipeline; and ensures that hydrants and valves are working properly in an emergency.
For more information, visit www.evmwd.com.
