Our system operator will be flushing lines Friday, October 17, 2025 between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
It is advisable to avoid using water during this time. This prevents redirecting the gunk being cleared from the lines (sediment, not harmful but a bother to clean up out of your sink, tub, and toilet) and entering your household.
There is a chance of some pressure fluctuations, but minimal at best.
---
Here's what you need to know if you do have discolored water after the flush:
- Go to the furthest exterior tap from where the water enters your home and open it full blast. Let the water run until clear (approximately 10 minutes).
- Once the exterior water runs clear, go to the furthest interior tap (if more than one story, then go to the highest floor, furthest from the connection to the system) and using the cold tap only open that up and let it flow until clear (again, 5-10 minutes).
Tips:- If you have an aerator type filter, carefully unscrew that and remove it from the faucet as the sediment may become trapped and back up/stop flow completely.
- Tubs and toilets first, then sinks (large to small)
- Cold water only for this first phase
- After clearing all interior taps running cold water only until running clear, go to the tub or sink closest to the hot water heater and run the hot tap for 10-15 minutes until clear. If, after 15 minutes, there hasn't been considerable change with discoloration, you may need to stop and flush your hot water heater. Please consult a plumber.
More Tips (Protect Water Dependent Appliances)
1. Before the Flush
Shut off water supply to appliances:
Locate the water supply valve for your refrigerator (for the ice maker), dishwasher, and washing machine and turn it to the "off" position.
Bypass or turn off your water softener:
If you have a water softener, put it into a "bypass" mode or temporarily turn it off to prevent it from being affected by the system flush, according to the State of Michigan.
Bypass other filtration systems:
If your ice maker is connected to an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system, use the filter bypass to protect it from the flush.
2. After the Flush
Discard the first batch of ice:
After water service is restored and the system flush is complete, allow your ice maker to fill the ice bin completely. Discard this first batch of ice to remove any residual sediment or taste from the flush.
Run cleaning cycles on appliances:
Run a short cycle on your dishwasher and washing machine to flush out any residual chemicals or debris from the plumbing.
Replace water filters:
Replace the water filter in your refrigerator for the ice maker, and check for any other filters associated with your appliances that might need replacement after the flush.
Check for clean water:
Allow your faucets to run until the water runs clear and is free of any sediment or discoloration before returning your appliances to their normal use
If, after flushing your system, you are still experiencing discolored water, call (360) 466-4443 during business hours or (360) 630-0970 after hours.