Melrose Begins Water Flushing, Hydrant Testing. Learn Times, Locations

MELROSE, MA — The City of Melrose reminds residents that the 2023 water flushing and hydrant testing program began Monday and will run through early November.

The flushing hours are generally between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and a schedule and map indicating where flushing will take place is available on the Department of Public Works (DPW) website.

The website also will be updated on flushing days — no later than 4 p.m. — to reflect the streets that have been completed and the following day's schedule, according to officials. Residents with questions about the flushing schedule can call the DPW at 781-665-0142.

Flushing and hydrant testing are conducted every other year in order to improve water quality and to test and operate the city water system's valves and hydrants, according to city officials.

City officials also warn residents not to run their water when flushing or testing takes place on their street.

"If you do (run your water during testing), sediment could get into your house's pipes, which could cause them to block, reduce pressure and/or cause discoloration in your water," officials said in a statement. "This situation could be expensive for you to repair."

The DPW also reminds residents that their water could become rusty or cloudy as a result of the testing.

If this is the case, residents are instructed to wait until the work is complete and then run their cold water until it is clear.

"Do not run the hot water, do not do laundry, do not use your dishwasher and do not add water to your pool until your cold water runs clean," officials said.

If residents inadvertently do laundry while flushing and testing are going on, and it stains their clothing, officials have asked the residents to contact DPW.

Additionally, officials are advising residents to fill pots and water bottles prior to testing, so they can use the water while the testing is in progress.