This Month, TWW Will Execute a Low-Velocity Water Main Flushing Program To Increase Water Circulation in Its Distribution System and Increase and Optimize Chlorine Levels
Trenton Water Works (TWW) continues to partner with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), and the affected local health departments to investigate factors that may be promoting the growth of Legionella bacteria and evaluate remedial actions that we are taking to improve water quality and reduce Legionella in the water system.
What are we doing?
Under its October 12, 2022, Unilateral Administrative Order, which provides the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) with direct operational oversight authority, NJDEP has been working with TWW to implement strategies to optimize the operation of the treatment plant and the distribution system. To help address Legionella in its water system, TWW will initiate a low-velocity water main flushing program throughout its service area in early April 2023 to increase the water circulation throughout the distribution system and to increase and optimize chlorine levels. Low-velocity, or conventional flushing, restricts the hydrant flow to such levels that the sediment within the pipes is not disturbed or scoured. The goal is to optimize chlorine disinfection to minimize the conditions contributing to pathogens' growth, such as Legionella.
What does this mean as our customer?
TWW employees will work throughout TWW's service area to sample or flush fire hydrants using specific equipment to keep hydrant flows at the necessary velocities. We do not expect customers to experience noticeable water quality changes, such as discoloration, in their homes or businesses during the program. TWW will also notify customers when flushing activities occur in their service areas.
TWW customers on home dialysis should contact their kidney specialist to check if additional testing of water for chlorine residual, or any other measures, is required before use. Additionally, customers using tap water for aquariums should monitor the chlorine-residual levels before use and treat them as needed.
Residents are encouraged to contact Trenton Water Works at (609) 989-3033 or the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Safe Drinking Water at (609) 292-5550 with any questions or comments. You can also visit dep.nj.gov/trentonwater.
You can find Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Legionnaires' disease, including best management practices to prevent Legionella from entering your premise plumbing, on the New Jersey Department of Health website.
You can download an Adobe PDF version of this public notice by clicking here.