The Town of Newmarket has a Watermain Swabbing Maintenance Program to ensure safe, high quality drinking water in Newmarket. This annual routine distribution system maintenance work will help reduce the effects of water degradation and is one of the most effective water distribution system maintenance procedures. This procedure will also help maintain the watermains to ensure the infrastructure will perform in times of emergency.
Swabbing involves scouring the watermain with foam swabs and high velocity water. These swabs are injected at a hydrant and pushed along the watermain to be removed further down the main through another fire hydrant. The fast moving water scours and cleans the mains. The hydrants are left open until the water runs clear. This helps to keep your water clean, fresh and flowing freely.
The procedure requires that water be turned off briefly while each section of watermain is prepared for swabbing. During swabbing, the pressure will be reduced considerably and residents are asked not to run water during this time. Once the watermain has been cleaned, normal pressure will be restored. Due the location of the residences, some residents may be impacted more than once.
Discolored water within private services is a possibility after swabbing is complete. If discolouration occurs, please run your faucets until the water is clear. The discoloured water does not pose a health hazard.
If the water does not clear up after a few minutes, please contact the Town of Newmarket at 905-895-5193.
All residents and businesses located within the swabbing maintenance area will be notified by a letter or door hanger 24 hours in advance. For more information please call 905-895-5193.
