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Utilities Division |
Waterline Flushing Program |
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Public Works Department personnel flush the water distribution system annually, typically in the spring. This procedure is necessary to help maintain the water quality in the distribution system. It is performed by systematically opening fire hydrants throughout the city. The 2011 flushing program was completed in May. |
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Flushing requires a large amount of water to create a scouring effect on the inside of the pipes to remove the sediment in which bacteria may form. The process improves the taste and odor qualities of the water and helps maintain chlorine residual in the system.
Pressure tests will also be performed concurrently at each hydrant location each year. These tests are required by the Insurance Service Office, Inc. (ISO) in order to rate the city’s fire suppression system. The ISO rating ranging from 1 to 10 (with 1 being the best), has a direct effect on residential and commercial insurance rates within the Fire District. Broomfield’s present rating is 4, which is considered to be good. Residential development is not affected by an improved rating once the rating is below 7. However, commercial development does benefit as the rating is lowered. Flushing operations take 4-5 weeks and require the use of approximately 15 million gallons of water. Business, commercial, industrial, and other high traffic areas are flushed at night between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Residential and lower traffic areas are flushed during regular working hours. |
This
scouring effect may result in some temporary discoloration in the water. If
this happens, residents are advised that, although unpleasant to look at,
the water is safe to drink. The water should clear up once the system
settles down, usually within 24 hours.