As part of Skagit PUD’s ongoing maintenance and water quality efforts, the PUD conducts a water line flushing program throughout its 630-mile water system. Flushing is a process that rapidly removes sediment from the PUD’s water piping system.

Why We Are Flushing

Flushing uses water force to scour out materials that accumulate in pipes. Water pipes are usually flushed by opening fire hydrants, where the discharged water flows off the streets like rainwater. The water flow is measured, and the chlorine in the water is neutralized.

Imagine driving down the road at less than 1½ miles per hour. That’s about the rate that water moves through underground pipes. This slow movement causes sediments, such as mineral particles, to build up over time and accumulate along the pipe’s bottom. A buildup of harmless microorganisms can also coat the pipe’s inner surface. If left unchecked, the materials can restrict water flow in the pipes and contribute to corroding.

Rapid water pressure changes, such as water main breaks and the use of fire hydrants, can stir up the sediment and dislodge deposits lining the pipe, resulting in a “dirty water” appearance.

Periodically flushing water pipes removes the material buildup, maintains infrastructure, and ensures consistent, good-quality water.

Isn’t Flushing A Waste Of Water?

Although it may appear to waste water, this process is part of the routine maintenance necessary to maintain the water system's integrity and deliver our customers the highest quality water possible.

Skagit PUD is committed to water use efficiency and sound resource management practices. The flushing program is monitored to ensure the least water is used. The PUD continually analyzes system-wide performance standards to minimize water use, including ongoing efforts to identify and repair leaks.

How This Will Affect You

In advance of crews being in your area, Skagit PUD will alert customers by placing high-visibility signboards throughout your neighborhood.

Residential flushing is generally conducted between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, to ensure the slightest degree of impact.

Customers may notice low water pressure, discolored water, or no water for short periods when flushing occurs. We recommend customers limit their water use. You should avoid using hot water to prevent sediment accumulation in your hot water tank.

Water discoloration primarily consists of harmless silt and residues, which do not affect the water's safety. However, we strongly recommend not washing a laundry load, especially white items, to prevent potential staining.

If you experience discoloration in your water after crews have been flushing, clear the pipes in your home by running all water faucets on cold, starting with taps outside, for a minute or two.

For flushing questions, call Distribution Superintendent Ryan Anderson at (360) 840-7709.