Submitted by City of Lacey
During the next seven months, the City of Lacey’s Water Utility Department will perform its annual water system unidirectional flushing (UDF) program. Unidirectional line flushing, a preventative maintenance practice, improves water quality by removing sediment and mineral build-up from the water lines.
During the flushing process, crews open fire hydrants and blow-off valves to create a strong flow of large amounts of water to remove the build-up of minerals from inside the pipes. Due to the large volumes of water required to clean the water lines, residents may notice water flowing down the gutter line of the street and into storm drains. Crews will posts signs where flushing will take place.
Water customers may notice a change in water pressure during flushing. Coloring or sediment can also appear in the water during, and shortly after, flushing. If this occurs, it can be removed by running the water for 5-20 minutes. Lacey water-quality personnel recommend checking to make sure your water runs clear before using it for drinking, cooking, or washing clothes Water pressure and clarity should return to normal soon after flushing is completed.
For more information about waterline flushing, visit ci.lacey.wa.us/UDF
