The City of Watertown provided information about the Valve Exercising Program and the Fire Hydrant Flushing Program.
Valve Exercising Program
What is Valve Exercising?
Valves are crucial components in municipal water systems, controlling water flow in our distribution mains. Valve exercising is the process of opening and closing valves to ensure they continue to function properly. Over time, valves can seize or become stiff due to corrosion, mineral buildup or lack of use. Exercising helps break up any buildup and allows operators to inspect the valve for signs of decay or malfunction.
Municipal valves found on hydrants, water lines, pipes and various other equipment need regular exercise to remain serviceable and avoid unexpected failures. Ensuring your municipality follows a regular exercise schedule can save you time, energy and money.
Why is Valve Exercising Necessary?
Valves are integral to clean water delivery. There are dozens of types of valves, but all have the same purpose: to control the flow of water, isolate sections of pipe for repairs, and ensure safe and efficient distribution. However, without regular maintenance, valves can deteriorate over time, leading to problems like stuck or malfunctioning valves. Valve exercising addresses these issues and ensures valves are ready for use.
It’s important to exercise valves on a regular schedule, and routine maintenance has several benefits. Exercising valves prevents seizing, extends their lifespan, and the Water Division to identify potential damage before the valve malfunctions. It is also a quick and relatively easy way to ensure minimal disruption to the water distribution system.
The American Water Works Association (AWWA) defines the practice of valve exercising as; “[valves] should be operated through a full cycle and returned to its normal position on a schedule that is designed to prevent a buildup of tuberculation or other deposits that could render the valve inoperable or prevent a tight shut-off.”
What Residents Might Experience?
• Discolored Water: Exercising valves can stir up sediment in the pipes, leading to cloudy or rusty-looking water. This is usually harmless and clears up after running the cold water for a few minutes.
• Noise or Vibration: You might hear unusual sounds from your plumbing as valves are operated and water flow changes.
• Utility Crews in the Area: Expect to see workers and equipment near valve access points, often in the street or sidewalk. They may block off small sections for safety.
• Advance Notices: Notifications to residents ahead of time if valve exercising might affect water service.
• Temporary Water Disruptions: While we will do our absolute best to keep providing water, in the event of an emergency, water may be shut off.
The Water Division is hoping for a smooth rollout of the program. Should any questions arise, please call 617-972-6420 ext 13119 and we will be happy to answer them.
2025 Valve Exercising Program Phase 1 (PDF)
Hydrant Fall Flushing Program
The Water Department’s Annual Hydrant Fall Flushing Program for Week Two from September 29-25, 2025, between 7 to 11pm.
The purpose of flushing is to remove sediment build up in the water mains and to verify the safe operation of hydrants and valves.
Flushing the system may cause discolored water. It is bacteriologically safe to drink, but unpleasant to look at.
This situation can usually be resolved by running your cold water until it clears up.
Locate the closest and lowest cold-water faucet in your building. Remove the aerator if there is one and turn on the cold-water faucet for a few minutes. Do not use the hot water since the sediments may be pulled into the hot water tank. If the water is still discolored after running the cold water, turn off the faucet and check it again later.
If discoloration continues, contact 311 Service Center Team by dialing 311 (or 617-715-8660) or send an email to 311@watertown-ma.gov.