04/21/2026
Please be Advised.
The Baltimore Water Department will be flushing fire hydrants beginning Monday, April 27, 2026. The flushing program will continue daily until completed. Residents may experience loss of pressure and discolored water and should inspect the water prior to washing clothing as staining may result. Run the cold water tap until your water clears up. The Baltimore Water Department apologizes for any inconvenience this may create. If you have further questions or concerns, please call the Water Utilities Office at 740 862-4491.
What is the purpose of fire hydrant flushing?
While it may appear that this runs counter to our water conservation philosophy, the periodic “flushing” of fire hydrants is an important preventative maintenance activity that helps to insure the integrity of the water system and to provide the highest quality water to our customers. More specifically, hydrant flushing serves the following purposes:
•Flushes sediments from water main pipes, thus enhancing water quality;
•Verifies that fire hydrants and valves are working properly and that ample water flow is available for firefighting needs;
•Aids in determining weaknesses in water pipes and related fittings and valves.
Hydrant Flushing Facts & Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Village perform hydrant flushing?
Hydrant flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants. It’s a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of the Village’s water distribution system. It ensures adequate water flow is available to fire fighters, residents and businesses. It also improves water quality by clearing iron and other mineral deposits from the water mains.
What are the effects of hydrant flushing?
Hydrant flushing helps ensure water quality and helps avoid random occurrences of rusty water if there is a high demand for water, caused by a major firefighting effort or water main break.
During the flushing of a hydrant, some customers may notice reduced water pressure and flow.
Why is my water rust/tea-colored from the hydrant flushing? Is the water safe?
Sometimes hydrant flushing can make the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and other mineral deposits in the water mains get stirred up. There is no health hazard associated with discolored water. Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however it may stain laundry, have an odor and an unpleasant taste.
Does the Village test the water regularly? Is the testing done at various sites?
The Village of Baltimore tests the water both leaving the water plant and throughout the water system regularly, following U.S. and OH Environmental Protection Agency protocols. Many tests are also completed around the clock during the water treatment process.
I live on the west side and the Village is flushing hydrants on the east side. How come my water is discolored?
Sometimes residents who live beyond the limits of the area where hydrant flushing is currently being performed, may notice rust-colored water. This can occur because the opening of a hydrant can cause water to run in the opposite direction than normal. Water Department personnel use techniques intended to minimize these impacts.
How come my water is discolored, but my neighbor didn’t notice any discoloration?
If the water inside a home or business is turned on while hydrant flushing is going on, discolored water may enter your plumbing. If a neighbor did not use water during the day, they most likely will not notice any discoloration.
My water is discolored. What should I do?
Wait until flushing has subsided in your area then run a cold water tap until the water runs clear.
Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.
If you notice the water flushing crew is near your property, refrain from using water, and delay washing clothes as much as possible.
How often is hydrant flushing done?
Hydrant flushing is performed two times a year – once in the spring and once in the fall. The work is generally done between 5:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Work continues daily until the entire water distribution system is flushed.
Further questions can be answered by calling The Water Utilities Office at (740) 862-4491
