Beginning this week, and continuing for approximately five weeks, Colorado Springs Utilities will be flushing water through about 30 fire hydrants a day. This effort is part of Springs Utilities’ annual water distribution flushing program which was re-established in 2007 after a five year suspension due to the 2002 - 2006 drought. Prior to the drought, flushing was done annually to improve water quality and enhance flows in water distribution pipes. Over time, water pipes can accumulate sand, iron deposits and other particulates. While not harmful to customers, these substances can cause pressure problems, service complications for homes and businesses, costly water main breaks, and taste and aesthetic issues. To rid the system of these damaging particulates, the distribution system must be flushed at a high rate of pressure at key hydrant locations. Hydrants used as part of the program will also be inspected and maintained to help ensure proper fire protection. Springs Utilities’ flushing program is consistent with industry practices and similar efforts are performed around the United States to keep water distribution systems performing at their peak levels. The program will release approximately 1 million gallons of water a day over the five week schedule. The released amount of water will be nearly half of what was released under the pre-2002 program thanks to a series of modifications, namely a focus on only key hydrants in a target area. Springs Utilities treats an annual average of approximately 72 million gallons of water a day. The program does not harm Springs Utilities’ water rights or the rights of downstream water rights holders, and is operated in accordance with a Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment permit.
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