It’s hydrant flushing season. During the entire month of May, the Shaker Heights Fire Department will be flushing water lines through the City’s fire hydrants. This is important preventive maintenance that removes mineral deposits that may occur inside the water distribution pipes and, at the same time, enables the Fire Department to ensure hydrants are in working order.
Signs will be posted in each neighborhood ahead of flushing. Please drive with caution when Fire Department crews are in the streets flushing hydrants.
Tap water used during flushing may contain sediment and some discoloration. If your water is discolored, simply shut the water off and wait a few minutes. Then run cold water for a few minutes to allow new water to enter your pipes. If the water is still discolored, wait a few more minutes and run the water again. In some cases, discoloration will occur for a few hours.
This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water – it does not affect the taste or quality. Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times, as the flushed sediment could discolor white clothing. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first.