The City of Harrisonville Water Department works hard to deliver our customers quality drinking water that meets all Federal & State standards. Hydrant flushing is a program the City has in place to help maintain those standards.
All Harrisonville water systems are scheduled for flushing beginning Monday, November 8, 2021. Staff plan to have the program completed on Friday, November 19.
The information provided in this bulletin addresses some of the more commonly asked questions concerning hydrant flushing and will provide customers with insight into the program exists.
What is hydrant flushing?
Hydrant flushing is the process of opening each fire hydrant and forcing water through the mains of the water distribution system to dislodge small particles of sediment that build up over time. Although the sediment does not pose as a health risk, it can result in discolored water when water travels through the mains during periods of peak usage. Hydrant flushing is an essential function of the City of Harrisonville to help maintain the delivery of quality water to its residents.
How often does hydrant flushing need to be done?
The frequency of hydrant flushing varies from one water system to the next, depending on each system’s characteristics. The Water Department preforms this program once a year, usually during the months when the demand for water is low. The flushing program also includes the ongoing process of testing and maintaining fire hydrants. Hydrant testing is combined with the flushing program so that the amount of water lost during the process is minimized. Water conservation practices apply to the Water Department the same as they would apply to the customers.
Is hydrant flushing going to interrupt my water service?
The answer is NO.
The City of Harrisonville will be flushing water mains during the daytime hours. Staff will do everything they can to schedule the program in a way that alleviates any inconvenience to the residents. However, residents may experience discolored water for a short period of time while flushing is being done in your neighborhood. Any discoloration should disappear within a short period of time. Staff will do their best to keep residents informed of when work will be done in their neighborhood, via door notices.
Steps you can take to help make this a positive & effective experience.
1. The day flushing is scheduled on your street, fill a pitcher or container with water for consumption.
2. Try not to use water while flushing is going on near your home. (Staff will keep residents informed when they are in their neighborhood.)
3. If you do need water while staff are in your neighborhood, please use cold water only. (This will help keep discolored water and sediment out of your hot water tank.)
4. If you have discolored water or the water has an odor and you are concerned, you can boil the water for three (3) minutes before drinking it, cooking with it. Please try to avoid doing laundry with it until it clears up.
5. If you experience discolored water, please run the cold-water side of your faucet, closest to your water meter, for five minutes. If the discoloration is still there, turn the water off and let it set for 15 minutes. After it sets for 15 minutes, try running the water for five more minutes. If it does not clear up, contact one of the phone numbers listed below.
If at any point during the flushing process you have any questions, please feel free to contact City staff at either of these numbers. If there is no answer, please leave a message and staff will get back to you as soon as possible.
Water Plant: (816) 380-8963
Water Department Office: (816) 380-8964
Water Department Supervisor: (816) 380-8978