Target Start - May 2025
Status - Completed
Watermain and Hydrant Flushing
Hydrant Maintenance
Yellow hydrants are municipally owned and an important component of the distribution system as they are an access point for drinking water system maintenance activities and they are also used for fire protection.
We ask that homeowners with hydrants help keep that area surrounding the hydrant free of snow in the wintertime, providing easier access if needed.
Watermain Flushing
Watermain flushing is a maintenance activity that involves moving water at a higher-than-normal velocity, scouring the inside of the watermain and essentially cleaning it out.
Residents are encouraged to limit water use while watermain flushing is taking place in their area. Although the water remains safe to use, you may notice temporary discolouration. If this occurs, run a cold water tap in your laundry tub or bathtub for approximately 5 to 10 minutes until the water runs clear.
Unidirectional Flushing
We conduct unidirectional flushing each year. This maintenance activity ensures we continue to provide the highest quality drinking water within our water distribution system. Watermain flushing typically starts in May and will run through October. Find your flushing zone
Schedules are subject to change. Contact us for more information on unidirectional flushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Midland is sectioned into 5 zones. Find your flushing zone
How does unidirectional flushing work?
Unidirectional flushing uses a hydraulic cleaning method to clear blockages, debris and other unwanted material from pipe mains.
Water is drained from fire-hydrant at high speeds out onto the street and into a storm drain. This high-speed water lifts and flushes sediment and mineral deposits from the pipes.
Flushing can take anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours per pipe, depending on the size of the pipe and the amount of sediment that needs to be removed.
The flushing generally occurs from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Starting in May and continuing through to October.
Can I use the water during flushing time?
While flushing is taking place, try not to use your water. If you must, first run cold water until it is clear to remove any particles from your system.
There may be a slight drop in pressure or a presence of discoloration from the minerals and sediments that are being flushed out of the system.
You may also experience low water pressure while we are flushing. Your pressure will return to normal once our flushing has ended.
What if the Fire Hydrant on my property is buried in snow?
The Town encourages property owners to help keep a clear access to the area around the hydrant to assist in case of any emergency situations. If you are unable to keep the hydrant clear, please call Customer Service at 705-526-4275 to report.
What if my water does not go back to normal?
Discoloured water in itself does not pose a health hazard, however if the water does not clear up after running your tap for a few minutes please contact Customer Service.
Contact Us
Town of Midland
575 Dominion Avenue
Midland, ON L4R 1R2
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