Mesa Water’s Flushing Program Ensures a Safe, Reliable Drinking Water Supply

Posted: Thursday, April 29, 2021

Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®) performs unidirectional flushing of the water main lines and fire hydrants as part of its regular preventative maintenance program.

Unidirectional flushing is a process where pipes are cleaned by forcing water through isolated sections, at high velocities, in a single direction. This produces a scouring action that loosens and removes any sediment buildup, including rust deposits and sand, from pipes that deliver your water. The sediment that is present is normal, however removing it improves the appearance of the water.

During a flushing operation in your neighborhood, you will see Mesa Water crews flushing water via fire hydrants and end of water main blow off pipes. Should you see water discharged in the street, please note this is a necessary part of a safe and reliable drinking water supply. Discharged water will soak back into the groundwater basins for reuse.

Water flushing generally occurs between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. and customers will be notified in advance of this work. Mesa Water’s Operations team will ask that you refrain from using water during that time, especially hot water, including laundry use. Residents are able to flush toilets during this time.

After, you may notice some discoloration or sediment in your tap water, affecting only its appearance. The water is safe and will clear up in a few minutes when you run cold water through the faucet of your bathtub or other unscreened tap such as a backyard garden hose.

For more information on Mesa Water’s flushing program, contact the Water Quality Department at 949.574.1031.