The City of Alcoa Fire Department will begin the annual fire hydrant testing and flushing of the water distribution system on June 23, 2020. Flushing the water system helps to maintain water quality and removes sediments that may have accumulated in the water mains. This preventative maintenance allows the City to assess the condition of the water distribution system and fire hydrants which helps keep insurance premiums for Alcoa’s residents manageable. Information gathered by the fire department is used by the Insurance Service Office to rate Alcoa’s fire suppression abilities. | |
This process also maintains the integrity of the City’s water distribution system, flushing out sediment or deposits that may naturally occur over time. Releasing water at high velocities from hydrants scours and scrubs water mains which removes film and sediment. If let unattended, these deposits could eventually impede water flow, which can also reduce water flow for fire protection and may cause taste and discoloration issues.
Water customers in the immediate vicinity of the work may experience temporary discoloration of their water. If this takes place, customers are advised to clear the pipes in their home or business by running all the cold water faucets for a few minutes, and to postpone washing clothes. Discoloration usually lasts no more than a few hours and affects only the appearance of the water.
If discoloration persists, please call the City of Alcoa Service Center at (865) 380-4800 to report your location.
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