Over time, natural sediments can accumulate in the large water pipes (also called mains) located beneath the streets. While these sediments are completely safe, they may affect water taste, color, and odor. Water main flushing is the process of cleaning the interior of the large water pipes and removing any accumulated sediment by sending a rapid flow of water through them. This rapid flow disrupts any sediment that may get in the mains over time, allowing us to filter and remove it. The water is discharged through select fire hydrants onto local roads or other surface areas.

Yes, Western continues to flush during a drought but will only do so when necessary. Although the program is scaled back during drought, this process is critical to the overall maintenance of a distribution system. It helps maintain high water quality, improve the capacity of pipes, and ensure proper operation of distribution system components, such as hydrants and valves. Flushing the main water lines also ensures that fire hydrants are operational.

In most cases, capturing and reusing the water being flushed is not feasible due to the high velocities and volume of water being released. Some storm drains will direct water to dedicated water basins and greenways for beneficial reuse. If you are running water to clear out your pipes after flushing, you can capture that water and use it to water plants.

Flushing is a normal part of a newly constructed well or for maintenance and rehabilitation. Water wells require regular maintenance to ensure adequate water flow and drinking water safety. Western flushes the water out to test each well's proper speed, or flow rate, and water quality. 

You may notice intermittent flushing activities at the New Clay Well, located on New Clay St. in Murrieta. Water is discharged into Murrieta Creek, which has an excellent percolation rate during the flushing process. Flushing the well is necessary to develop local groundwater resources. When the water goes into Murrieta Creek, it seeps deep below into the basin, thus recharging our groundwater supply.