DEP water main test shut-off

DEP posted a notice today that they’re shutting the water supply on several blocks in the neighborhood. They advise owners to shut the main house valve, and open one hot water faucet above the level of the hot water tank. I understand the main house valve, but why run the hot water faucet? Won’t that increase the concentration of sediment once water supply returns? What about air in the pipes?

ventilated

in Plumbers and Plumbing 12 years and 1 month ago

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ventilated | 12 years and 1 month ago

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Thanks, MP. I just re-opened the building’s water supply and all seems good (no water spitting from faucets, no discoloration). Even so, I’m still confused about why running the hot water would not create a larger air pocket in the hot water tanks. My thinking: the building water supply is off, therefore any water used will drain what’s left in various reservoirs. Running water will diminish whatever water’s already stored in the building, which will be replaced by air. Air will not be displaced by water until main valve is turned back on. From what you write, that’s not what happens, but not sure where where I’m getting it wrong.

Master Plvmber | 12 years and 1 month ago

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They want you to run water through the hot water tank to push any accumulated air out of it.