PVWC Annual Hydrant Flushing Program Underway
Published on April 08, 2026
(Clifton, N.J. – April 8, 2026) – Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) has begun its annual hydrant flushing program across its service area. Flushing will occur on weekdays (excluding holidays), weather permitting, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The program is expected to be completed by November 2026.
Clifton and Paterson will be flushed first. Customers can stay informed about flushing activity in their area by visiting pvwc.com and using the address look-up tool.
The purpose of this exercise is to ensure adequate water supply by removing accumulated sediment and maintaining the proper flow of water. During the flushing process, customers may experience temporary discoloration of their tap water and/or reduced water pressure. This discoloration is caused by sediment and minerals that have accumulated in the water mains over time. PVWC advises residents to refrain from doing laundry during the flushing period and to wait until the water runs clear before drinking or cooking with it. After flushing, customers experiencing discoloration are encouraged to run their cold taps until the water is clear.
“PVWC’s mission is to safely and efficiently maintain and distribute a secure and sustainable supply of high-quality drinking water,” said Jim Mueller, Executive Director of Passaic Valley Water Commission. “Flushing is an essential part of our maintenance program, and we appreciate the cooperation and understanding of our customers during this process.”
Municipalities to be Flushed:
• Clifton
• Lodi
• North Arlington
• Passaic
• Paterson
• Prospect Park
• West Milford (High Crest and Post Brook sections)
PVWC thanks its customers for their patience as we work to maintain our water system. For more information and the flushing schedule, please visit pvwc.com, or call customer service at 973-340-4300, option #2.
Hydrant Flushing
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) flushing hydrants in my area, isn’t that a waste of water?
A. Flushing is a standard practice in the water industry and keeps water clean and fresh by removing accumulated sediment that may build up in the water pipes.
Q. Is my water safe to use during flushing?
A. PVWC tests water quality regularly to ensure its drinking water standards meet or exceed federal guidelines. However, the company recommends not doing laundry or cooking with discolored water.
Q. What should I do if my water pressure gets low?
A. It is possible to experience low pressure during flushing. After the flushing in your neighborhood, please run your cold-water tap(s) and the pressure should normalize.
Q. How long will it take to flush the system in my area?
A. PVWC will flush the system as safely and quickly as possible, weather permitting.
Q. How do I flush the discolored water from my home?
A. Open the cold-water faucet(s) in your home and let them run until the water is clear.
Q. What if discoloration and low pressure continues to happen after flushing is over?
A. Should you continue experiencing discolored or low water pressure after the system is flushed, please contact Passaic Valley Water Commission’s customer service department at 973-340-4300, option #2, and a representative will be able to assist you.
Stay informed of PVWC-related activity by registering to our free notification system by visiting https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=pvwc.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work diligently to continue providing clean drinking water to our valued customers.
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