Spring Ann Arbor fire hydrant flushing Update

The city conducts seasonal fire hydrant inspection and system maintenance each year. The 2020 hydrant is scheduled to resume Tuesday, April 14, and to continue through the coming months. If any changes to the starting date become necessary, updates will be shared on the city website.

As the program nears, a map will be available online to show the current hydrant-flushing areas as well as where flushing will take place next. Find the map at www.a2gov.org/annarborhydflush.

Why is it helpful to know when hydrant flushing is happening in your neighborhood? On occasion during the hydrant-flushing process, the water in area homes may have an orange or rusty appearance. The discolored water does not pose a health or safety risk, but the water can cause stains to laundry. If water appears discolored, please run the cold water for several minutes to clear your lines. Do not run the hot water, as rusty water may get into the hot water tank, requiring the tank to then be drained, per the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also flush your toilets once or twice. The water should run clear within a few minutes. The iron sediment in the water main being disturbed by the hydrant flushing causes the discoloration. Temporary laundry coloration caused by this sediment can be removed by using a product called “Rover.”

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the hydrant-flushing process, go online or contact the City of Ann Arbor Customer Service Center, 734.794.6320.