Norwich — Norwich Public Utilities started the annual water system flushing Wednesday, a process expected to be completed by the end of September.

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

The work started this week on Otrobando Avenue at West Town Street and will move to the lower end of Connecticut Avenue in the Norwich Business Park. The flushing will continue on West Town Street to Lee Avenue.

NPU will provide regular updates on the status and schedule on its Facebook page, facebook.com/NPUtilities, in the weeks ahead.

There are 1,385 hydrants on the NPU system and the utility is scheduled to flush approximately half this summer as part of a multi-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 a water system on a regular basis helps remove sediments that build up within pipes and ensures NPU customers will receive water with sufficient oxygen, disinfectant levels and an acceptable taste and smell.

During and immediately after the flushing, customers may experience a slight and short-term discoloration of their water. Customers are advised to open their cold water taps and allow the water to run for several 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.

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