AWWA WQTC59013

The integration of distribution system water quality management practices appears to be among the future regulatory requirements that utilities can anticipate facing in the near future. Historically, water utilities have incorporated programs for distribution system flushing as a means of restoring water quality particularly within dead ends or extremities of their systems. These practices usually require coordination with distribution system and laboratory personnel for the flushing of sections of the system that may be experiencing less than desirable water quality variations. Needless to say, the time and coordination effort required among these personnel can be financially burdensome depending on the flushing frequency and water quality conditions experienced. As part of an initiative to enhance water quality within the distribution system, the City of North Miami Beach Public Services Department has incorporated several automated water flushing devices to flush certain areas of the distribution system on a scheduled basis. The automatic flushing system uses a fraction of the water otherwise required by a manual flush, but more importantly it does not require personnel for its operation. Although flushes occur periodically, they are not voluminous, thus having insignificant impact on area drainage. However, more important is the water quality benefits achieved when conducting periodic flushes on a scheduled basis. Chlorine residuals, pH, and total trihalomethanes have improved in problematic areas of the distribution system since the operational implementation of these devices in comparison to previous years. This paper provides an analysis of quantifiable benefits achieved by the City in overall water quality as well as operational cost savings associated with the use of an automated flushing device. Includes tables, figures.