How We Maintain Our Water System

HOW WE MAINTAIN OUR WATER SYSTEM

Unidirectional flushing (UDF) is a routine maintenance process used in the Blind River municipal water systems to clean water pipes.  This maintenance activity is typically performed twice a year as part of our water system maintenance plan. It involves forcing water through isolated sections of the system at high speeds in one direction, using carefully planned valve and hydrant operations. This helps remove sediment, minerals, and other debris that can build up in the pipes over time.

Benefits of Uni-directional Flushing:

• Improves Water Quality: By removing accumulated sediment and debris, UDF helps maintain clearer, better-tasting water.
• Boosts System Efficiency: Cleaner pipes mean water flows more freely, reducing strain on the system and improving pressure.
• Enhances Fire Protection: By maintaining hydrants and ensuring strong water pressure, UDF improves the effectiveness of the water supply during emergencies.
• Prevents Long-term Damage: Regular flushing helps reduce pipe corrosion and extends the lifespan of the water infrastructure.

 UDF is an important part of keeping our water supply safe, reliable, and efficient!

***Notice of Upcoming UDF***

• Unidirectional flushing (UDF) will take place between Oct. 21- 25 throughout the town Blind River's water system.
• Slow moving water in the distribution system can allow sediment and bacterial growth to grow over time.
• UDF removes this sediment, increases disinfectant residual, improves colour, and removes turbidity and restores flow in the water distribution system.
• A preventative maintenance program is also implemented on valves and hydrants in conjunction with the UDF program.
• There may be a slight drop in water pressure or a presence of discolouration from the minerals and sediments that are being flushed out of the water mains.
• TIP: If a discoloration is noticed in your water, please turn the tap off for 15 minutes. Then flush cold water from your bathtub tap or outside tap for 15-30 minutes until the water runs clear.

Frequently asked questions about UDF:

Why is the PUC “flushing” the watermains?

Flushing the watermains improves water quality by removing sediment that slowly builds up at the bottom of the watermain over time. The sediment comes from internal corrosion of the watermains over many years.

How does unidirectional flushing (UDF) work?

During the UDF process water is forced though the watermains at a high speed and discharged though hydrants. The fast-moving water scours and cleans the mains. We leave the hydrants open until the water runs clear.

How will I know when the PUC is cleaning the watermains in my neighbourhood?

The Town of Blind River will inform residents before starting the flushing program by posting notices on its website and through social media and Voyent Alert.

What should I do if my water is discoloured after PUC has flushed the watermains?

Water is sometimes discoloured after watermain cleaning, but this should not last long. In the event you draw discoloured water into your home, flush a cold tap only for up to 15 minutes maximum. As a precaution, prior to using hot water run the cold water tap for a few minutes to ensure discoloured water is not drawn into your hot water tank.

What should I do if the water is still discoloured after 3 to 4 hours?

Contact the Town of Blind River at 705-356-2251

How much does the water I use to flush my taps cost me?

The PUC advises customers that do experience discoloured water to flush a cold tap only for up to 15 minutes maximum. 15 minutes of flushing a typical household faucet costs under 10 cents.

How long does it take to clean the watermains on each street?

It takes about 30 minutes to 60 minutes to flush the watermains on each street.

Why can’t PUC clean the watermains at night?

It is safer for staff to work on the streets in daylight. Also, daylight provides better visibility to see when all the sediment has been flushed out and the water is running clear.