Full Notification

The Township of Cranford has been informed that New Jersey American Water is flushing hydrants today in the northeast section of Cranford.  All questions or concerns should be directed to New Jersey American Water at 1-800-272-1325.

INFORMATION FROM NJ AMERICAN WATER ON THEIR FLUSHING INITIATIVES:

WHY FLUSHING IS IMPORTANT

Flushing our system helps to clean out any build up of mineral deposits and sediment inside the pipes. These deposits can occur when there is a reduced water demand. We also flush our hydrants to confirm they are operational and to check fire flows in our system.

HOW WE FLUSH OUR PIPELINES

Flushing involves simultaneously opening fire hydrants in a specific area to create increased water flows. When our crews are on your street or nearby, this process usually takes about one hour.

WHAT TO EXPECT

When crews are in your area, you may notice a drop in water pressure or discolored water. Discolored water may occur, because the sediment in water mains get stirred up when the fire hydrants are used and when the flow of water in mains is changed. This is normal. If this happens, it is not harmful. Simply let your water run until it is clear.

WHAT TO DO TO PREPARE FOR FLUSHING

• Sign up for our customer notification system at www.mywater.amwater.com to receive a call, text or email to let you know when we’ll be flushing in your neighborhood.
• Draw water for cooking ahead of time.
• Store a large bottle of water in the refrigerator for drinking.
• Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher.

ADDITIONAL CUSTOMER TIPS

• Avoid running your tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher while crews are flushing in your area.
• If discolored water occurs, simply 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. NOTE: 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. No health hazards are associated with discolored water from hydrant flushing. If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

HOW TO GET CUSTOMER NOTIFICATIONS

We will use our phone/text/email customer notification system to notify you before we begin flushing your neighborhood. You must opt-in to these types of non-emergency alerts.

• Log into MyWater, our customer portal, at mywater.amwater.com.
• On the Alert Settings tile, click on the Edit button, which will take you to the page where you can update your contact information and preferences.