Has your building been partially or fully closed for months during the pandemic? Flush Your Water Pipes!

Many offices, schools, and other buildings have been partially or fully closed due to the pandemic. Water sitting in pipes for long periods of time can create water quality challenges and potential health risks that should be addressed prior to returning to more normal operations. Fresh water should be drawn into building water systems and stagnant water flushed out before they are reopened.

As a water provider, we control microorganisms – including Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ Disease – as part of our routine treatment operations. Once water enters a home or building, the resident or building manager is responsible for maintaining water quality in their home or building plumbing system.

How to flush your system

Flushing your water pipes is an easy way to help maintain quality by removing the older water out of the pipes and bringing fresh water in. Follow the simple steps outlined in the graphic below!

The American Water Works Association has also developed flushing instructions.

Where to find safe building reopening resources 

Building managers can find guidance on reopening buildings, information about potential hazards, and best practices for flushing from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

If you have questions or concerns about reopening your building or your water quality, we are here to help. Please email us or call 503-635-0394.