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CAMDEN, N.J. – FEB 26, 2025 – Beginning next week and into the fall months, New Jersey American Water will perform the annual flushing of its water distribution system to continue to provide customers with high-quality, reliable water service.
“System flushing is a routine but critical part of maintaining water quality and system performance,” said Ben Morris, Vice President of Operations at New Jersey American Water. “It clears out natural sediment, helps us confirm hydrants are functioning properly, and helps ensure the system can deliver the pressure and flow our customers expect every day.”
Flushing involves simultaneously opening fire hydrants in a specific area to create increased water flows. This routine flushing program also includes flushing blowoff valves on dead-end water mains throughout the system. While water mains are being cleaned, customers may notice short periods of low water pressure or discolored water. If customers experience temporary water discoloration, New Jersey American Water recommends running the cold water until it is clear. The following steps are also encouraged:
- Sign up and opt-in for general alerts to be notified when flushing takes place.
- Draw water for cooking prior to the flushing period.
- Store a large pitcher of water in the refrigerator for drinking.
- Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher.
- If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check faucet screens for trapped particles.
“In addition to the significant infrastructure investments we make every year, maintenance activities like hydrant flushing help us stay ahead of potential issues and meet the requirements of the Water Quality Accountability Act,” Morris added. “We appreciate our customers’ patience as we complete this important work.”
New Jersey American Water will notify customers when flushing takes place in their area through its mass notification system and asks customers to take a few moments to update their contact information and preferences in their MyWater account. Customers must opt-in for general alerts to receive local flushing and other non-emergency notifications via phone call, text or email. Individuals who are not New Jersey American Water account holders but would like to receive alerts and notifications from the company can also sign up by texting WATER to 99411.
To learn more about New Jersey American Water’s 2026 hydrant flushing program, visit the flushing page at www.newjerseyamwater.com.
About New Jersey American Water
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state with approximately 875 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 3 million people. For more information, visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and follow New Jersey American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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