Norwich — Norwich Public Utilities started its annual water system flushing this week and expects to complete the task by Aug. 1.

NPU will open hydrants throughout its service area with initial focus on the biggest water mains that feed larger service areas. Once complete, localized flushing of smaller mains in neighborhoods will take place throughout the summer.

There are 1,385 hydrants on the NPU system and the utility is scheduled to flush nearly 400 this summer as part of a three-year cycle. In almost all instances, this work, which is done by NPU crews, will take place between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Flushing the water system on a regular basis helps remove sediments that build up within the pipes and ensures that NPU water has sufficient oxygen, disinfectant levels and an acceptable taste and smell.

During and immediately after the flushing of the NPU water system, customers may experience a slight and short-term discoloration of their water. Customers are advised to open their cold water tap and allow the water to run for a few minutes at full velocity, which should resolve the issue. It is possible for these issues to arise anywhere on the NPU water system while the flushing process is underway.

The schedule of flushing for this summer is as follows:

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[naviga:li]Otrobando Avenue, lower Connecticut Avenue, West Town Street, Clinton Avenue, Wawecus Street, Town Street, East Town and Washington Street areas.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Washington Street, Lafayette Street, Sherman Street, New London Turnpike, Dudley Street, Asylum Street areas toward West Main Street.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Salem Turnpike, Briar Lane, Henry Street, Laura Boulevard and West Main toward Chelsea Harbor.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Thames and West Thames streets, Dunham Street and New London Turnpike.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Washington Street and Broadway to Chelsea Harbor Drive.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Boswell Avenue and North Main Street through Greeneville and Norwich Avenue into Taftville.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Canterbury Turnpike and Harland Road into Occum.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Laurel Hill Avenue and Route 12 into Preston.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]East Main Street and Hamilton Avenue.[/naviga:li]

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Any customers with concerns should contact the NPU Customer Service Center at (860) 887-2555.