Why do Volusia County Water Resources and Utilities employees open fire hydrants?
Volusia County Water Resources and Utilities conduct regular water system flushing to remove any mineral build-up and sediment from the pipes and also to ensure that water circulates adequately throughout the system. Fire hydrants may also be opened to conduct fire-flow capability tests. What is added to my water? Well water is chlorinated for disinfecting requirements to keep the distribution system safe from pathogenic bacteria. At three of our Water Treatment Plants, an orthophosphate chemical is added for lead and copper control and bio-purge chemical is added as a corrosion inhibitor. Why does water need to be disinfected? Disinfectants are required because they prevent the spread of germs that cause diseases. Years ago, before disinfectants were used for drinking water, diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and dysentery were common. Drinking water disinfection has vastly improved the quality and safety of drinking water. Why does my water sometimes have a chlorine taste or sm
