OAK RIDGE, Tenn. (June 13, 2025) – The City of Oak Ridge Public Works Department will begin conducting routine flushing of the water system throughout the City next week. The flushing will be performed between 6:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday until Aug. 13, 2025.

A schedule with the areas set to be flushed can be found at oakridgetn.gov/waterflushing. The days on which the areas are flushed may vary depending on the water system conditions.

Those living in the areas being flushed are advised to avoid running water, washing clothes, or using dishwashers when flushing is happening, to prevent drawing discolored water into their home.

The flushing program is an annual requirement of all water systems and is used as a means of ensuring that satisfactory water quality is maintained throughout the water system. It aids in this task by removing iron deposits and other sediments, which aren’t harmful and naturally collect within all water systems.

“After flushing, residents are encouraged to run cold water from a bathtub faucet or outdoor spigot for several minutes until it runs clear. This helps clear internal plumbing,” Gene Wilson, Utilities Operations & Maintenance Manager said. “It’s especially important to check for discoloration before doing laundry or cooking.”

Inclement weather may result in delays. For questions or more information, contact the Oak Ridge Public Works Department at (865) 425-1875.