Hydrant Flushing
Click here for a Hydrant Flushing Map
Click here for a Hydrant Flushing Schedule by major streets
Why we flush Hydrants?
The Meadville Area Water Authority (MAWA) strives to ensure that all of our fire hydrants are in good working order at all times. Flushing fire hydrants twice a year in the spring and the fall, may at first glance, seem like a waste of water, but there are a number of things taking place during our hydrant maintenance program. Flushing hydrants every 6 months help;
1. Maintain water quality throughout the distribution system by removing sediment though high velocity flushing.
2. Perform hydrant maintenance and insure that the hydrants are in good working order for firefighters.
a. Check operation to ensure a smooth operation
b. Apply food grade grease to ensure nozzle threads can be easily removed.
c. Flow tests the hydrants when needed.
d. Confirm water pressure.
e. Color code fire hydrants based on expected flows for firefighters use.
f. Check that hydrants are labeled correctly for police and firefighters use.
g. Sound hydrants for finding leaks in the distribution system.
Schedule of flushing hydrants?
The MAWA schedules the flushing of our hydrants between the hours of 10:00pm to 6:00am to to minimize inconvenience to our customers.
What if you experience dirty water during our hydrant flushing?
If discolored water occurs, it should be temporary and can be cleared by opening the cold water tap nearest to the meter.
Special Concerns?
If you have concerns or special needs that would be affected by water main flushing please give us a call at 724-6057.
How complex is a fire hydrant?
The number of parts in a fire hydrant is over 50 parts, depending on the type of the hydrant. Each part is critical in the proper operation required during firefighting. Click here for the working parts of a typical fire hydrant.
