Water Main System Flushing Program Starts March 30

WOODBRIDGE, Va., March 24, 2026 —Prince William Water will begin its annual water system flushing program on Monday, March 30, as part of its ongoing commitment to delivering clean, fresh and reliable drinking water to customers. The program will continue through May 4.

Each spring, the utility follows industry best practices to conduct systemwide maintenance that helps to ensure high-quality drinking water. The program includes two coordinated activities:

1. Hydrant flushing - Prince William Water crews briefly opening hydrants throughout the utility’s service area, allowing water to flow freely. This helps remove sediment and mineral buildup from pipes.
2. Temporary disinfectant change - During the flushing period, wholesale water providers temporarily switch the primary disinfectant used in the drinking water treatment process. This temporary change works hand-in-hand with hydrant flushing to clean the system more effectively.

“Implementing our annual spring flushing program is a recognized best management practice for safeguarding water quality within the distribution system,” said Doug Shoop, Director of Operations and Maintenance. "We follow the guidance of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Virginia Department of Health."

Customer Tips

• Customers may notice Prince William Water crews working in neighborhoods as hydrants are opened to clean the system. 
• Some customers may notice a temporary chlorine taste or odor due to the disinfectant change. This is normal and can be reduced by using a water filter or letting water sit uncovered for a couple of hours.  
• Brief periods of cloudy tap water may occur; running cold water for about two minutes typically clears the issue. Customers who continue to experience cloudiness or sediment should contact our Customer Service Department at (703) 335-7950 or at customerservice@pwwater.org.

To learn more, visit our Spring Flushing Frequently Asked Questions. 

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Prince William Water has been providing drinking water and water reclamation services for Prince William County since 1983