United Water Toms River begins Spring hydrant cleaning

If you live in Toms River, South Toms River and Silver Ridge Park or Holiday City in Berkeley Township, don't be surprised if the water pressure drops briefly some time in the next nine weeks.

United Water Toms River begins flushing hydrants Monday morning, March 23, with a target end date of May 22.

Work is scheduled Mondays through Thursdays, 8 AM until 8 PM; Fridays, 8 PM until 12 Noon; with no activity on weekends or on Good Friday, April 3.

The semiannual project clears sediment buildup in main lines, which enhances quality and assures a supply for firefighters if needed, Director of Operations Jim Mastrokalos said.

"During flushing operations, customers may experience temporary incidences of low water pressure or volume and slight discoloration or cloudiness, which is not harmful," Mastrokalos said in a prepared release.

If that's the case, he recommends shutting off the flow, then running cold water until the freshened supply enters your system, which you'll know by its clarity.

While crews are on your street, the company advises refraining from using tap water, washing machines or dishwashers. Check the United Water web page, Facebook page or Twitter feed to find out when they'll be on your block. Knowing beforehand will give you time to fill some containers to keep on hand, Mastrokalos said.

And, of course, if you see them at work while you're driving by, don't crowd them - slow down, and move over if you can.

United Water's toll-free customer line is 877-565-1456.