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Water System Pipeline Cleaning Program
Western routinely cleans its water system to help maintain high-quality water throughout our service area. In the water industry, this process is known as flushing. But simply put, it is water pipeline cleaning.
Western's water system cleaning program removes sediment and mineral build-up throughout the distribution system and verifies the proper operation of the valves and hydrants. To learn more about Western's cleaning program and why it's necessary to continue these practices during a drought, read our frequently asked questions below.
Current Pipeline Cleaning Project
Sep. 12, 2023
Pipeline camera work will occur Sep. 12, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the above section of Murrieta. You may notice Western Water crews in the neighborhoods. They will move from hydrant to hydrant to help with unidirectional pipeline cleaning. There will be signage displayed as they are cleaning and will move from various sections throughout the above map.
View the most recent postcard mailing here.
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.
Western is committed to providing customers with safe, reliable water. We take pride in consistently delivering water that meets and exceeds federal and state water quality standards. Western performs pipeline cleaning to ensure our water maintains its high quality in the long term.
We do not expect this to occur during the cleaning process. In the event customers draw discolored water into the home, run a cold tap consistently, such as a bathtub or shower faucet, for up to 15 minutes maximum, to clear out internal plumbing. Flush all toilets two to three times as well. If you continue to experience any quality issues or concerns after running a tap for 15 minutes, contact Western’s customer care team at 951.571.7104.
In most cases, capturing and reusing the water being cleaned is not feasible due to the high velocity 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 cleaning, you can capture that water and use it to water outdoors, such as in planters and greenspace.
Cleaning 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 cleans the water out to test each well's proper speed, or flow rate, and water quality.
You may notice intermittent cleaning activities at the New Clay Well on New Clay St. in Murrieta. Water is discharged into Murrieta Creek, which has an excellent percolation rate during the cleaning process. Cleaning the well is necessary to develop local groundwater resources. When the water enters Murrieta Creek, it seeps deep below into the basin, thus recharging our groundwater supply.