Hydraulic Flushing (also known as Watermain Flushing) is the process used to clean watermains. Water system valves are turned off to isolate a section of the watermain and water is then flushed through in one direction at a high speed to produce a scouring action that removes built-up sediment in the water main. The City cleans watermains to improve water quality by removing sediment.
Hydraulic Flushing Program
City of Prince Albert to Begin Annual Hydraulic Flushing Program in Zone 1
The City of Prince Albert advises residents that annual hydraulic flushing of the water distribution system will begin in Zone 1 during the week of August 31, 2026.
The work is scheduled to take place Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is expected to continue for approximately four to six weeks, weather permitting.
Hydraulic flushing is a routine maintenance program conducted annually to help maintain water quality and the reliability of the City's water distribution system. Zone 2 is scheduled for hydraulic flushing in Fall 2027.
Many residences will not experience any disruption to their water service during flushing activities. However, in some areas, residents may notice:
- Temporary loss of water pressure
- Discoloured water
Residents should be aware of the following during the flushing process:
- Flushing may take anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours in a given area.
- Avoid using water whenever possible while flushing is taking place.
- Turn off any time-delayed water systems, including:
- Dishwashers
- Coffee makers
- Water softeners
- Water filtration systems
- Lawn sprinkler systems
Hydraulic flushing uses high-velocity water to scour water mains and remove sediment and mineral buildup that can accumulate in pipes over time. This preventative maintenance helps improve water quality and supports the long-term performance of the City's water distribution network.
See the Frequently Asked Questions below.
The Benefits of Hydraulic Flushing
Hydraulic Flushing removes a large amount of mineral and nuisance deposits, which occur over time in the water distribution system.
This allows water to move freely through the pipes. Other benefits include: water conservation (less water used to flush the system), improved water colour, improved taste, lower turbidity(cloudiness) and improved chlorine residuals throughout the entire water system.
Additional benefits to the consumer:
- Cost effective preventative maintenance
- Fewer water quality complaints due to water main failures or service leaks
- Helps identify areas of the water distribution system that might need repairs/upgrades
- Checks fire hydrant operation
- Verifies water mapping
- Will improve the water quality within our water distribution system.
Hydraulic Flushing Zone 2: Starts Sept 19, 2023
Hydraulic Flushing Zone 1: Will be done again in 2024.
- Residents will be notified via neighborhood signs 24 hours before flushing starts.
- Flushing may take anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours.
- You should avoid using water if possible during the flushing process.
- Turn off any time delayed water systems such as dishwashers, coffee makers, water softeners, filtration systems, and lawn sprinklers.
- In some cases there may be a loss of pressure and discoloured water. In the case of discoloured water, you will want to avoid using it for purposes that require clean water, such as preparing food and beverages, medical and dental procedures, or laundry.
- Properties should not lose water service during flushing but it is possible and that it will happen temporarily. If this happens, you can contact the Public Works Department.
- After flushing is complete you can remove the aerator (the fine mesh grid screen) on your tap(s), turn on cold water and let the water run for five to ten minutes.
- This will flush water out of service piping and plumbing lines.
- In most cases, the water should begin to run clear again within minutes.
- Do not choose a tap that has a water filter connected to it; otherwise, the sediment may clog your filter.
- Do not use a hot water tap because it could draw sediments into your hot water tank.
- Once the water runs clear, place the aerator back.
- If the water does not clear within 5 to 10 minutes, wait two hours and try again.
