Water Flushing Program

The City of Kenora is committed to maintaining the water distribution system to deliver a constant flow of clean water to your tap. On a regular cycle, unidirectional flushing is used to clean the waterlines by sending high volumes of water through certain sections of watermains. This technique clears sediment, mineral deposits, and blockages in the lines.

Water flushing program notices with location maps

During the flushing process, water service should not be interrupted. However, brief interruptions may be necessary to complete the route. Common and temporary effects of the flushing process include a slight drop in water pressure and discoloured water. You can expect water to become cloudy or slightly coloured with a yellow, red, or brown tint. The coloured water may cause alarm at first; however, there is no health risk, and the water is safe to consume. It may be more visually appealing to postpone household cleaning, laundry, or food preparation until the water runs clear and flushing is complete.

Upon the completion of the flushing program in your neighbourhood, it is best to open a cold water tap for a few minutes until the water appears clear and the pressure returns to normal again.

What is a Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) Program?

Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) is a method of cleaning the water mainlines through a network of flushing sequences, with the water being discharged from a fire hydrant. A UDF program involves closing valves in a specific sequence to create water movement in one direction while opening specific fire hydrants at the end of that sequence. The UDF technique allows higher water flow velocities by isolating certain sections of water mains.

What is the benefit of UFD Program?

The UFD technique helps to dislodge and remove deposits and sediment that accumulate in the water mains.

How will I be affected?

In most cases, there will be no noticeable changes to your water delivery during the UDF process. In some cases however, homes may experience a temporary slight drop in water pressure and/or slightly discoloured water. You should not experience an interruption in water service during the flushing process. However, brief interruptions may be necessary to complete the work.

Can I do laundry?

Wait at least 24 hours after flushing has occurred before doing laundry. Before you start doing laundry, check the water colour from various taps within your home to ensure it is running clear. Failure to follow these instructions may result in permanent damage to clothing.

Do not do laundry on the day flushing is occurring in your neighbourhood. View the Water Notices to find when the Flushing Program will take place.

What if the water is coloured?

Due to varying velocities and flow rates in the water system, you may experience slightly coloured water, which at times is unavoidable. Under most circumstances, you can run the taps for a few minutes after the flushing is completed and the water should be clear.

Such coloured water does not pose a health hazard; however, iron (red water) and manganese (black water) may be stirred up within the water system during the flushing procedures and could cause laundry and other essentials staining. This could also be aesthetically unpleasant. Since flushing activities will take place between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, you should not to use water for laundry during such period if possible.

How can I check to see if my water is cleared up?

Run your cold water tap (screen removed) for a few minutes. This should allow the system to flow with clear water.

What should I do if my water does not clear up?

If the coloured water does not clear up after running your cold water tap (screen removed) for a few minutes or if there is any other issue, please call City Hall Customer Service at 807-467-2000 or 807-467-2080 after hours for additional assistance. You may also submit a Request For Service at any time.