TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Indiana American Water will be conducting water main flushing in the Terre Haute service area starting Aug. 23 and continuing through Oct. 15.
This annual maintenance procedure is done by Indiana American Water to confirm high water quality in the Wabash Valley and ensure fire hydrants are operational.
“Water main and fire hydrant flushing is an important part of a regular maintenance program for water distribution systems,” Terre Haute Operations Manager David Baker said. “Indiana American Water consistently meets or exceeds all drinking water standards.”
IAW expects no interruptions in regular service because of the flushing. However, customers may notice a subtle drop in water pressure as well as temporary water discoloration while maintenance is conducted. Customers are being told to avoid doing laundry while the flushing program is taking place in or near their neighborhood.
If tap water is discolored, IAW is recommending turning on several cold-water faucets and running them for a short time until water is clear. Using more than one faucet allows the water to clear more quickly.
As a part of the flushing program, IAW will temporarily change the disinfectant used in the water treatment process to support a systemwide flushing of the Terre Haute district. The company’s Terre Haute system, Sullivan Vigo Rural Water, and the company’s systems in Farmersburg, Prairieton, Marion Heights and Riley will all be using chlorine rather than chloramines during this time.
Customers who ordinarily take special precautions to remove chloramines from their tap water, including dialysis centers, medical facilities and aquatic pet owners, should continue to take the same precautions during the temporary switch from chloramines to free chlorine.
Customers may experience a chlorine taste and odor in drinking water while free chlorine is utilized. If anyone is especially sensitive to the taste and odor of chlorine, IAW recommends keeping an open container of drinking water in the refrigerator, enabling the chlorine to dissipate and reducing the chlorine taste.
Anyone with questions regarding hydrant flushing should call IAW’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-492-8373. The water main flushing will be performed by Indiana American Water crews who will be working out of trucks identified with the company logos and will have photo IDs.
