Press Releases
Annual Flushing starts Monday, March 30
Alexandria, VA – March 27, 2026 – Beginning next week, Virginia American Water will perform flushing of its water distribution systems to continue to provide customers with high-quality, reliable water service.
“Scheduled annually to maintain and improve water service, flushing removes mineral deposits and sediment from water mains, helping us to continue to provide our customers in Alexandria with high-quality water service,” said Charlie Piekanski, Vice President of Operations at Virginia American Water. “This planned work for our water distribution system is an essential part of Virginia American Water’s maintenance program.”
Flushing involves simultaneously opening fire hydrants in a specific area to create increased water flows. This routine flushing program also includes flushing blowoff valves on dead-end water mains throughout the system.
Tips for Customers during Flushing season
While water mains are being cleaned, no interruptions in water service are expected, but customers may notice short periods of low water pressure or discolored water. The following steps are encouraged:
- Draw water for cooking before flushing is set to begin in your neighborhood.
- Store a large pitcher of water in the refrigerator for drinking.
- Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher.
- After flushing is complete:
- If temporary water discoloration occurs, run cold water until it is clear.
- If water pressure or water volume seems low, check and clean faucet aerators.
For more flushing information and tips to prepare, visit https://newsroom.amwater.com/PrepareForFlushing.
Piekanski adds, “When Virginia American Water employees are flushing a hydrant, the general public is asked to stay away from the area for their safety and to give our employees enough space to complete their work.”
Virginia American Water notifies customers when flushing is scheduled to take place in their area through its mass notification system and asks customers to take a few moments to update their contact information and preferences in their MyWater account. Customers https://login.amwater.com/ must opt-in for general alerts to receive local flushing and other non-emergency notifications via phone call, text or email. Customers and individuals who are not Virginia American Water account holders can check amwater.com/vaaw/alerts on the company’s website for the latest updates regarding any potential service disruptions due to planned work or emergencies.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
About Virginia American Water
Virginia American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water company in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 384,000 people. For more information, visit www.virginiaamwater.com and join Virginia American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.
Media Contact
Marybeth Leongini
External Affairs Manager
Virginia American Water
Marybeth.Leongini@amwater.com