IRWD Crews At Work

It takes a lot to maintain our water and sewer distribution systems. With thousands of miles of pipeline, we are frequently in your neighborhood conducting maintenance or repairs.Click here for a list of current and future improvement projects.

Otherwise, our crews may be out there flushing hydrants, working on a meter, or repairing a broken water pipe. Sometimes, these emergencies may require a brief interruption in service, and we will attempt to notify you before we turn off the water. During these times the appearance, smell, and/or taste of your water may be different.

 Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydrant-flushing?

• IRWD flushes hydrants to test their proper functioning for fire flows, but also to periodically freshen the water supply from sediment such as sand that can be drawn up from well-pumping. The sediment is only aesthetic (discoloration and metalic taste).

What happens when a main pipeline breaks?

• Our crews isolate the pipe by shutting off valves and temporarily placing the water supply out of service for the time necessary to make repairs. Water service can frequently be provided via a bypass. Following repairs, the pipe is cleaned and disinfected. New pipe, like any new constainer can produce a different taste and/or odor. This will usually go away after a few weeks.

Will I be notified before my water service is interrupted?

• You will receive a letter or some other form of notification from IRWD when work is scheduled on your street. However, when we respond to main breaks or other emergencies, it may not be possible for us to provide advanced notice. Whenever possible, our crews will notifiy you in person and by a notice card left on your door if they are doing an emergency repair that will disrupt your service. Please keep in mind we do not notify customers during late night or early morning hours.

Contact information: For emergencies during non-business hours please call 949-453-5300 (24 hours).