Citywide Hydrant Flushing to Begin Sunday, April 16

HILLSDALE, Mich. — The Hillsdale Board of Public Utilities will begin its spring hydrant flushing program on Sunday, April 16, 2023.

Crews will flush hydrants day and night, until the flushing program has been completed. Flushing the entire system is expected to take several days.

What does “hydrant flushing” mean?
The hydrant network provides fire protection to homes and businesses. Keeping each hydrant in proper working order calls for regular maintenance. Each spring and fall, BPU performs a preventative action known as hydrant flushing, which verifies the system has adequate water flow. It also serves a secondary purpose in removing sediment that naturally accumulates in water mains. Flushing it out of the system helps uphold the high water standards the city strives to maintain.

Will I see a drop in water pressure due to the flushing?
Most customers will not see a drop in water pressure. If a change in water pressure occurs, it usually lasts for only a short time.

Will hydrant flushing in my area cause cloudiness or sediment in my water?
The flushing process can stir up sediments and minerals in the water mains, which could occasionally result in some short-term cloudy water conditions. The temporary discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not pose any health risk. If you experience discolored water, flushing cold water from the tap for a few minutes until the water is clear again should alleviate this condition.

When will you flush the hydrant near my home or business?
Due to crews working in multiple areas, it is not possible to provide a detailed schedule of when each hydrant will be flushed.

Questions or concerns regarding hydrant flushing can be directed to the Hillsdale Board of Public Utilities by calling (517) 437-3387.