XENIA — The Greene County Sanitary Engineering Department (GCSED), will be conducting unidirectional flushing (UDF) of all water main lines.
The flushing is set to begin March 27 and will continue into the summer months. UDF is a proactive method of cleaning water distribution pipes to improve water quality and restore system capacity in your neighborhood.
According to the GCSED, residents will see a significant amount of water flowing from fire hydrants for long periods of time. Sanitary Engineering says it is the most effective way to maintain county pipes and keep the water safe and clean. The expelled water is returned back as surface water runoff and ultimately recharges the aquifer from which it came.
Sanitary engineers said while UDF is happening in your neighborhood, residents may experience a drop in water pressure. If at all possible, the GCSED asks residents to minimize water use until flushing in your area has ended. This will keep possible particles from entering your home or business piping.
Residents may also experience discolored water after their areas have been flushed. To clear this, simply run cold water in your bathtub on the lowest level of your home or all faucets on the lowest level of the business. Run the cold water until it runs clear, which should take roughly 5-10 minutes.
GCSED said that discolored water is caused by mineral deposits in the pipes. While the water does not look aesthetically pleasing, it is safe for consumption. Sanitary Engineering advises not to wash white laundry in discolored water as it will stain. If this happens, they advise, do not dry your laundry — simply rewash after clearing your lines.
Sanitary engineers strive to protect the quality of life in Greene County through effective, sustainable, and affordable water and recycling services.
If a resident encounters a flushing issue or water does not clear up after 10 minutes, call the GCSED utility maintenance crew at 937-562-7108 during business hours or 937-562-7450 after business hours. For more information on other GCSED projects, visit https://greeneforward.com.
Reach Karen Rase at 937-502-4534.
