CCWD’s Valve Program Keeps Pipes
Clean, Water Quality High

Crew Leader Doug Funk and Utility Worker Jason Schneider open a valve (above) and (below) a fire hydrant.

From time to time, you may notice CCWD crews opening valves or fire hydrants and running water in your neighborhood. This systematic maintenance program extends the life of pipes and valves, and keeps water quality high.

Under CCWD’s 2009 Drought Management Program, regular flushing activities in the service area were suspended.  With the water shortage we all faced, crews limited flushing to keep as much water in the system while maintaining delivered water quality.

With the conclusion of the Drought Program in May 2010, CCWD will resume normal flushing activities as part of the regular maintenance of the water distribution system.  

Why is CCWD Opening the Valves? Water leaving the treatment plant is clean and safe, but may pick up tastes, colors, or odors as it travels through distribution system pipes on its way to customers. Opening the valves improves water quality at the customer tap and uncovers potential problems. Opening valves and hydrants is the only way to clean the pipelines, the brief  -- but high -- flow of water scours the pipes.

Doesn’t This Waste Water?  No, by opening and closing valves and using the pressure of the water to clean pipes, CCWD is undertaking preventative maintenance that keeps the quality of the water in pipelines high, and prevents a major leak or valve failure in the future. Unplanned events like a main break or valve failure can mean a lot of lost water, so the little bit of water we lose when opening the valves reduces the risk of larger amounts being lost during an unplanned, uncontrolled event.

Will My Water Service Be Affected? Most customers will not be affected by this activity; however some might temporarily experience a slight discoloration or sediment in their water after pipelines in their area have been cleaned. To clear this sediment, run all outdoor spigots until the water runs clear, then run interior faucets until they run clear. This typically takes about three to four minutes.
Service interruptions normally do not occur during pipeline cleaning activities.

How Long Does CCWD Keep The Valves Open?  Typically, the valves are open for about three or four minutes, though the amount of time can be longer depending on the length and size of the pipe.

I Have More Questions. For questions or assistance, contact the CCWD Water Quality Hotline at 688-8156 or send an e-mail.