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Sweetwater Authority (Authority) recently acquired a NO-DES system to support the agency’s water main flushing program, which maintains overall water quality. The Authority is the first agency in the region to purchase the water-saving equipment. Bringing the flushing program fully in-house will achieve significant cost-savings for the agency and its customers.
Water main flushing is a standard industry practice that cleans pipe interiors by removing any naturally-occurring sediments that have accumulated over time. While these sediments are completely safe, they may affect water color, taste and odor. Traditional flushing methods release water from fire hydrants at a high speed in order to “flush out” sediments, and the water eventually ends up in the storm drain system. The NO-DES technology not only significantly reduces water waste, it also provides the best possible sediment removal from the Authority’s pipes.
“Being efficient with our water use, making smart financial investments and providing the highest quality water to our customers are top priorities for the Governing Board,” said Board Chair Hector Martinez. “By purchasing the NO-DES flushing unit and training Authority staff to operate the equipment, we achieve those objectives.”
The flushing program launched in February 2023, working its way through the 36 square-mile service area to complete a full-system flush. The Authority will notify customers when flushing crews are working in their area.
