Fort Collins Flushing Water Distribution System This Week

If your water is cloudy or discolored, don't worry. Fort Collins Utilities crews started flushing the water distribution system on Monday. They will continue to flush the system 7 a.m.-5 p.m., weekdays, for approximately eight weeks (weather permitting).

Flushing will start along Mason Street and College Avenue, including the Downtown area, and progress eastward to Northern Lights Drive (just past Ziegler Road), with Willox Lane as the northern boundary and Harmony Road as the approximate southern boundary. A map of current flushing locations will be available at http://fcgov.com/hydrantflushing .

Why do They Flush the Water Distribution System?

When flushing, fire hydrants are opened and water flows through at high speeds, cleaning the pipes and removing the sediments that can affect the water's taste and color. Flushing is an essential preventative maintenance strategy for the water distribution system. It helps maintain water quality and keeps our water fresh.

The flushing process doesn't typically interrupt water service, although it can happen on occasion. A decrease in water pressure is more common.

What if Your Water is Cloudy?

Sometimes the sudden rush of water can stir up sediments in the pipes and cause the water to become cloudy or discolored for a short time. These sediments are not harmful, though they may stain laundry.

If you experience cloudy or discolored water, wait until the nearby flushing is completed, remove any aerators or filters from your faucet and run the COLD water until it clears. This water can be used on plants or landscaping.