Annual Hydrant Flushing & Flowing

The City of Fremont’s water and sewer maintenance department will be performing our annual flush and flow program on fire hydrants in the northwest quadrant of the city starting June 1, 2026. This quadrant is everything north of Croghan St and west of the Sandusky River. This process often involves releasing large amounts of water into the streets. While it may seem like water is being wasted, hydrant flushing and testing are essential maintenance activities that provide several benefits, including:

• Ensuring Proper Operation – Verifies that hydrants are functioning correctly.
• Assessing Water Flow – Evaluates the available water pressure for firefighting.
• Enhancing Water Quality – Removes mineral and sediment buildup from water mains.
• Meeting EPA Requirements – The Ohio EPA mandates flushing 25% of hydrants annually.

Why hydrant flushing matters:

The water and sewer maintenance department flushes 25% of the city’s hydrants each year as part of routine maintenance. This practice is vital for public drinking water systems because it helps identify malfunctioning hydrants and valves, ensuring they work at maximum efficiency. Flushing also helps refresh the system, ensuring clean and safe drinking water. Additionally, pressure tests are performed on these hydrants as well. These tests confirm that hydrants are in working order and can provide the necessary water pressure for firefighting operations.

Understanding water discoloration:

Hydrant flushing can stir up natural sediment in the pipes, leading to temporary water discoloration. While this may affect the water’s appearance, it remains safe to drink. Running cold water for a few minutes usually clears up any discoloration. If needed, repeat the process. Avoid using hot water, as it can draw sediment into your water heater.

Please contact Water/Sewer maintenance with any questions or concerns at 419-332-3181.

Sandusky County Dispatch
419-332-2613 after hours for an emergency