FAQs • Boca Raton, FL • CivicEngage

What should I do after the flushing?: -If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that causes discoloration. If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear, it's ok to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect the taste or water quality.
-Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first.
-If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

Please call 561-338-7300 for more information.

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Utility Services: Hydrant Flushing

1. What should I do after the flushing?: -If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that causes discoloration. If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear, it's ok to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect the taste or water quality.
-Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first.
-If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

Please call 561-338-7300 for more information.

2. How do I get on the pre-flushing notification list?: To get on the pre-notification list, contact the Operations and Environmental Compliance Manager at 561-338-7310.

3. How often are hydrants flushed?: The Utility Services Department flushes the entire system for two weeks twice a year, generally beginning during the 1st week of May and November. Before flushing the fire hydrants, a public notice is published in the Boca Raton News and placed on the City's website as well as notification on Government Access Channel 20. Businesses and customers that may be adversely affected by the flushing, such as hospitals, doctor's offices, pet stores, and others are contacted directly by the Utility Services Department. Please call 561-338-7300 for more information.

4. What takes place during fire hydrant flushing?: During the flushing process, a Utility Services Water Distribution operator opens each hydrant to its maximum flow. The flow stirs up iron deposits and settlements and removes them from the system. The operator cleans and lubricates accessible operating parts, checks the operation of the hydrant and valve, and records any deficiencies for repair. Also during the 2-week system-wide flushing, the disinfection process is changed from chloramines to "free" chlorine. Please call 561-338-7300 for more information.

5. Why is hydrant flushing necessary?: Periodically, you will see Utility Services personnel releasing water from hydrants. Flushing is done to remove sediment from the pipes in order to maintain water clarity and quality in the distribution pipes. Please call 561-338-7300 for more information.