System-wide water flush starts today

Stafford Utilities customers may soon see some changes in their water as part of the county’s continued effort to provide quality water.

Beginning March 13, 2023 and no later than the end of May 2023, Stafford County will conduct a system-wide flush to ensure a high level of disinfection of all county water lines.

The county is taking additional steps to maintain the 717 miles of water lines in the distribution system through a deep cleaning process called “free chlorination.” Stafford County will temporarily distribute “free chlorine” instead of combined chlorine throughout the water distribution system during this process.

The free chlorination process helps remove any bacteria in the distribution system and prevents bacteria from developing resistance to the routine disinfection process.

The free chlorination process does not affect water quality, but some people may notice a slight change in the taste and smell of their tap water. The chlorine will naturally dissolve if you keep water in an open jug in your fridge. As a precaution, this flushing process may affect owners/operators of aquariums, laundromats and other water dependent businesses.

You may notice an open fire hydrant as crews flush your neighborhood. Opening fire hydrants helps pull the chlorine through the distribution system. Sediments or minerals that have accumulated in the water network can also be washed out by flushing. For more information about this program, visit staffordcountyva.gov/flushing.

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