Now is the Time for Flushing Raw‐Water Mains

Abstract

Raw water mains should be flushed twice a year in early spring and late fall. Some of the benefits of flushing are reduction of silt and slime load at the water treatment plant, savings on chemical doses, improvements in carrying capacity, and energy conservation through reduced pump work loads. The water utility in Wallaceburg, Ontario uses two soft polyurethane foam swabs to clean their water mains. The first swab forces out slime, mud, and dirty water, while the second swab lubricates the pipe.