Valve Exercising/Hydrant Flushing Programs

Valve Exercising Program Overview

The Valve Exercising Program is crucial for ensuring the reliable operation and maintenance of our water distribution system, directly impacting water quality. This proactive approach involves systematically exercising each main line valve to confirm they operate smoothly and effectively.

Program Procedures

During each cycle, every valve is operated through a full range of motion and then returned to its normal position. This regular exercise schedule helps prevent the buildup of rust, corrosion, or other mineral deposits that could impair the valve’s functionality or prevent a secure shutoff.

Documentation and Tracking

Accurate documentation is key to the program’s success. For each valve, we record the location, make, type, size, number of turns, close direction, and installation date. This data is stored in the District’s GIS system, which maintains a comprehensive written record of each valve’s location, condition, maintenance history, and inspection results.

Program Benefits

The Valve Exercising Program offers numerous benefits, including:

Detailed Valve Information: Comprehensive records ensure we have up-to-date information on each valve.
Emergency Preparedness: Reliable valves are critical in emergencies, allowing for swift isolation of water lines.
Operational Efficiency: Staff can quickly isolate water lines for main flushing or repairs, reducing response times.
Extended Valve Life: Regular exercising prolongs the lifespan of the valves.
Reduced Overtime: Efficient valve maintenance minimizes emergency repair overtime.
Water Conservation: Effective valve operation reduces water loss and waste.
Service Reliability: Minimized water service disruptions ensure better service for our customers.

Through the Valve Exercising Program, we strive to enhance the durability and dependability of our water infrastructure, ensuring a consistent and high-quality water supply with minimal interruptions.

Flushing Hydrants in Conjunction

To complement the Valve Exercising Program, the District also conducts a comprehensive hydrant flushing program. This involves opening hydrants and allowing water to flow at high velocity through the distribution system. Flushing serves several key purposes:

Water Quality Improvement: By flushing out sediment and stagnant water, we maintain high water quality throughout the system.
System Performance: Flushing ensures that the hydrants and main lines are operating efficiently, free of obstructions and sediment buildup.
Inspection and Maintenance: Each hydrant is inspected during flushing to identify any necessary maintenance or repairs, ensuring they are always in working order for emergencies.

Coordinated Efforts for Maximum Efficiency

The combined efforts of valve exercising and hydrant flushing maximize the effectiveness of our water distribution maintenance. By coordinating these activities, we can:

Enhanced System Reliability: Regular maintenance prevents unexpected failures, ensuring a reliable water supply.
Comprehensive Data Collection: Detailed records from both programs enhance our GIS database, providing a complete picture of system health and maintenance needs.
Efficient Resource Use: By aligning valve and hydrant maintenance schedules, we minimize disruptions and make efficient use of staff time and resources.
Proactive Problem-Solving: Regular inspections allow us to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into emergencies.

Conclusion

Our integrated approach to valve exercising and hydrant flushing is essential for maintaining the integrity and performance of the water distribution system. These programs work together to ensure operational efficiency, enhance water quality, and provide reliable service to our customers. By investing in regular maintenance and thorough documentation, we are committed to delivering the highest standard of water service with minimal interruptions.