Water main “flushing” begins in April

Why does my water smell?
Each spring, Kentucky American Water conducts water main “flushing” to reduce deposits and sediments in the water distribution system that can build up over time. This annual process ensures our water is of the highest quality for our customers. To prepare for this activity, we also temporarily change our treatment process from using chloramine to free chlorine in some areas.

You may soon notice Kentucky American Water personnel in your neighborhood opening fire hydrants and letting them flow for a short period of time, which is how we flush the water mains. The water flowing from the hydrants will be dechlorinated to prevent any chlorinated water from entering urban streams.

   HOW WE FLUSH OUR PIPELINES
During flushing in most areas, our water treatment process switches from using chloramine to free chlorine. If this is the case for your area, you may notice a stronger smell of chlorine in the water beginning in mid-April and lasting through late May. Chlorine levels will remain the same and the water is perfectly safe to consume. Our Glencoe, Millersburg, Rockcastle County and Wheatley water systems will not experience a water treatment change.
  WHAT YOU MAY OBSERVE
You may also notice a slight drop in pressure or discolored water for a short amount of time when we are in your area. If you experience discolored water, please avoid doing laundry until the discoloration subsides. Run cold water from your tap for a few minutes until the water clears. Do not use hot water if you experience any discoloration as it can cause sediment to be pulled into your hot water heater.
   MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Flushing will begin mid-April and progress throughout our service areas over several weeks. Flushing will occur during:
• Late evening and early morning hours (Fayette County)
• Daytime hours (areas other than Fayette County)Please note that only Kentucky American Water employees will be working on the hydrants. Employees can easily be identified by marked vehicles, badges and uniforms.

Click here to find out when our crews will be in your neighborhood. For additional information, please call our customer service team at 1-800-678-6301.