Many utilities have used flushing programs as part of
distribution system maintenance, but little guidance has
been available to help utilities develop programs that
actively avoid water quality deterioration and meet each
system's specific needs.
Although flushing programs can be an important part of a
good distribution system maintenance program, many utilities
use them without clearly identifying water quality objectives.
Secondary water quality and customer satisfaction
problems can be created if adequate attention is not given to
planning, implementing, and evaluating the program's
effectiveness.
The authors provide a rationale and guidelines for assessing
current flushing programs. In addition, they provide tips that can
help utilities to determine whether flushing is appropriate and to
plan, implement, and manage a program. An optimized flushing
program can help utilities improve distribution system water
quality, reduce customer complaints, save water, enhance distribution
system operation and maintenance, and better understand
distribution system conditions. Includes 5 references.