The City of Morenci will be hydrant flushing Tuesday, June 13 through Thursday, June 15. Hydrant flushing will be performed by the Morenci Department of Public Works (DPW) starting around 10:00 p.m. each evening through the early parts of each morning.
The schedule for hydrant flushing is as follows:
Tuesday, June 13: West of Bean Creek
Wednesday, June 14: South of Main St.
Thursday, June 15: North of Main St.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of hydrant flushing?
A: A water supply flushes hydrants to perform general maintenance on the distribution system. Flushing a hydrant helps to provide valuable information on the general wellbeing of the hydrant, and ensures water flow is available to fight fires, for residents, and for businesses. Flushing also helps clear iron and mineral deposits from the distribution lines.
Q: My water looks like a rusty / tea color. Is the water safe?
A: Hydrant flushing can cause water to temporarily appear rusty since iron and mineral deposits get stirred up. Water is still safe to drink during hydrant flushing. It could cause laundry stains, though, which is why the City of Morenci is performing this exercise during the night.
Iron is, usually, the main source of the discoloration. The City of Morenci obtains its water from two wells located at the Water Treatment Plant. These wells have anywhere between .70 to .80 parts per million (ppm) of iron when water is pumped out of them. Much of that iron is sequestered through iron removal filter with a total distribution level around .10 to .20 ppm of iron.
Q: Is my water being tested?
A: The City of Morenci’s water supply is supervised by at least three staff members on a daily basis. Daily tests include chlorine residuals of water at the Water Treatment Plant and in the distribution system. Other tests include levels of iron in raw and finished water, monthly bacteriological tests, and bi-weekly water quality parameters (includes pH, alkalinity, conductivity, chloride, calcium, and sulfate). Lead and copper sampling is done yearly, as well.
Tips to Minimize Water Discoloration
• Run water prior to doing laundry
• Limit water use during the times of hydrant flushing
• Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. Keep clothes wet and treat with stain remover if this happens.
For more information, please contact the City of Morenci at (517) 458-6828.