Archived News Release: March 20, 2024 - The city conducts seasonal fire hydrant inspection and system maintenance each year. The 2024 hydrant flushing program is scheduled to resume Monday, April 8, and to continue through the coming months. If any changes to the starting date become necessary, updates will be shared on the city website.
As the program nears, a map will be available online to show the current hydrant-flushing areas as well as where flushing will take place next.
Why is it helpful to know when hydrant flushing is happening in your neighborhood? On occasion during the hydrant-flushing process, the water in area homes may have an orange or rusty appearance. The discolored water does not pose a health or safety risk, but the water can cause stains to laundry. If water appears discolored, please run the cold water for several minutes to clear your lines. Do not run the hot water, as rusty water may get into the hot water tank, requiring the tank to then be drained, per the manufacturer's instructions. You should also flush your toilets once or twice. The water should run clear within a few minutes. The iron sediment in the water main being disturbed by the hydrant flushing causes the discoloration. Temporary laundry coloration caused by this sediment can be removed by using a product called “Rover."
Contact the City of Ann Arbor Customer Service Center with questions at 734.794.6320 or visit the hydrant-flushing webpage to learn more about this routine process.
