Flushing Program

uni-directional flushing program

Starting on April 12, 2023, the Water Department will begin flushing hydrants throughout the Town and will continue until it is completed.  Flushing of hydrants will be conducted during normal business hours in most areas.  We expect the program to be completed within 6 to 8 weeks.

The uni-directional flushing (UDF) program is very important to the maintenance of the town's domestic water distribution system.  Twice a year, the Water Department systematically opens hydrants throughout the Town to clear out sediment build up and allow water to flow at a high velocity through the distribution mainlines. This operation serves the following purposes:

  •  Enhances water quality by removing sediments from inside the mainline and flushing them out through the hydrant.
  •  Identifies malfunctions of the hydrant and related valves.
  •  Helps determine weaknesses in the water distribution system.
  •  Identifies inadequate water volumes and pressures in the mainlines.
  •  Helps determine fire flows at the hydrant.

We apologize for the discolored water that may occur as we flush, but by proactively flushing sediment out through the hydrants means less sediment will be entering residents' homes.

Please click on the What is UDF? link above for a better understanding of the flushing program and why we ask for your patience while flushing.

Discolored water

To report discolored water between 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM, please call the Water Department office at 508-949-3861. If you experience discolored water after hours, please call the Webster Police at 508-943-1212 and they will contact the On-call water operator.

Please read the instructions on How to Flush Discolored Water from your home if you have discolored water in your home.

Flushing schedule

Please consult the maps and street listings below to determine which zone you are located.  We are often asked by residents for the exact day or time that we will be flushing in their area.  This is a difficult question to answer because every street has it's own flushing sequence that requires multiple valves to be opened or closed in order ensure only clean water is entering an area. Please click on the What is UDF? link above for a better understanding of the flushing program and why we ask for your patience while flushing.

During the flushing program, you may experience dirty or discolored water as a result of your Zone, or an adjacent Zone, being flushed. Please do not be alarmed as this is a normal consequence of the program.  Please check you water before use.  If you experience discolored water, please contact the Water Department as outlined above.