Nightly swabbing and daily flushing of Guelph’s water mains is set to begin next Monday, Apr. 17.
The city has mapped out a schedule for the operation, which will cover all swabbing/flushing zones by May 12, if all goes according to plans.
The map, http://guelph.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017SpringWaterMainCleaningMapSchedule.pdf shows that the southern most part of the city is where the work will start.
The cleaning part will happen from Apr. 17 and May 4, between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., while the flushing component will happen from May 8-12, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
There are a few things to expect during the annual process, which is undertaken to ensure that any build up of minerals like iron and manganese is cleaned from the pipes. Those minerals can dirty the water. No chemicals are used in the cleaning and flushing operations.
While in progress the work may result in low water pressure, and the water from taps may appear discoloured. Health risks are unlikely, according to the city, but it is recommended that residents wait until the water clears before drinking it. Running cold water for five to fifteen minutes should clear it.
Homes and businesses where water mains are to be cleaned will receive a notice 48 hours before cleaning starts on their street. It is recommended that water from the taps not be used during the work, and that tap water be stored before the cleaning starts.
For more information about Guelph’s water supply contact Water Services at 519-837-5627 or [email protected], or visit guelph.ca/water.
