Safety and quality: Annual hydrant flushing and flow rating
It's that time of year again! In partnership with Kingston Fire and Rescue, we’re launching our annual hydrant inspection and flow rating program, an essential part of maintaining our water system.
With more than 3,700 hydrants across the city, this is no small task. Each year, our team inspects every hydrant and performs flow rating tests on 20% of them to ensure everything is working as it should.
Why does this matter? Protecting the integrity of our drinking water system and ensuring reliable fire protection are our top priorities.
Fire protection: ensuring readiness in emergencies
Hydrant inspections play a critical role in emergency preparedness. Our licensed water distribution operators carefully inspect mechanical components, assess overall condition, and perform flushing and flow rating. Based on these results, hydrants are colour-coded blue, green, orange, or red to help firefighters quickly identify flow capacity when seconds count.
Where is flow rating happening this year?
Our annual flow rating is performed on 20% of hydrants, selected on a rotating basis. This year, from June until fall, all fire hydrants will be inspected (including newly installed hydrants). Flow rating tests will be conducted in zones 2 North and 7 South:
- Zone 2 North: East of Division Street, south of the Wabaan Crossing, in the area of Belle Park.
- Zone 7 South: West of Barrie Street, between Union Street and King Street.
Explore the hydrant zones map. This work will take place Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Water quality: cleaner, safer water for all
Hydrant flushing is more than routine maintenance. It helps remove built-up sediment and impurities, supporting a clean and safe water supply throughout the system while keeping water tasting fresh.
And here’s a fun fact: our hydrants wear blue socks. These hydrant socks help control the flow of water during flushing, reducing the risk of property damage. Practical and a little bit stylish too!
What to expect during inspections
While our crews are out inspecting hydrants, you may notice a few temporary changes:
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Reduced water pressure: Water flow may be temporarily redirected, resulting in lower pressure in some areas. This is expected, and pressure will return to normal shortly.
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Discoloured water: Hydrant flushing can sometimes cause water to appear discoloured. It is still safe to use. To clear it, run the cold water tap closest to your water meter for approximately 5 to 25 minutes, or until the water runs clear.
If your water pressure or water clarity does not return to normal, please contact us at 613-546-1181.
Meet our team
We’re excited to welcome four summer students to our hydrant maintenance program. This year, they will join our inspection team. The initiative offers valuable hands-on experience while supporting youth employment in Kingston.
Keep an eye out for our team as they work across the city to keep hydrants in excellent condition, helping protect both our drinking water system and fire services. If you have any questions or concerns, we’re always just a phone call away.
Learn more about hydrant flushing and flow rating procedures.