New Jersey American Water to Flush Pipes in West Windsor This Week

New Jersey American Water is currently conducting its  spring system maintenance program. This week the company is working in the West Windsor area, according to West Windsor Police.

It is unclear when the company will be doing work in Princeton. For both Princeton and West Windsor, the spring timetable does not provide dates, and says “Schedule coming soon.”

To clean the system, workers open fire hydrants to increase water flow, which flushes minerals and deposits from the pipes. While flushing the system won’t interrupt water service, the company says when crews are working in your area, you may notice a temporary drop in water pressure or discolored water. “This is normal. If this happens, simply let your water run until it is clear,” a New Jersey American Water statement reads.

Tips from New Jersey American Water:

– Avoid running your tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher while crews are flushing in your area.

– If discolored water occurs, run the cold water for a few minutes until it clear. This will allow the sediment to work its way through your pipes.

– Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap before doing laundry or running the dishwasher. If your laundry becomes stained, do not put your laundry in the dryer. Rewash clothes immediately using detergent and add a rust remover. Most rust removers can also be used on stained fixtures.

– In some cases, slight discoloration might linger for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water and does not affect water quality, according to the company. No health hazards are associated with discolored water from hydrant flushing, according to the company.

– If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.