What is the recommended duration for flushing dead-end water mains?

Flushing dead-end water mains is an important maintenance activity aimed at ensuring water quality and removing sediment, chlorine decay, and potential contaminants from the system. The recommended duration for this flushing process is at least five to ten minutes. This timeframe is generally recognized as sufficient to ensure that a sufficient volume of water flows through the mains, effectively replacing stagnant water with fresh, treated water.

During this flushing period, a strong enough flow can help dislodge deposits and improve water transparency and taste. Flushing for five to ten minutes achieves a balance—long enough to create effective turnover in the system while being manageable and practical for operators. Thus, this duration aligns with standard industry practices that prioritize both water quality and operational efficiency.