Overview
Beginning on September 19, 2022, members of our Water Services team will be in your community to complete watermain cleaning.
When will watermain cleaning take place?
Watermain cleaning has been scheduled in Vars from September 19 to approximately October 14. The cleaning is done in coordination with Ottawa Fire Services, and allows time for the reservoir to completely refill at the end of the workday. Cleaning will take place each Monday and Thursday.
Cleaning is currently scheduled for:
| Monday | Thursday |
| September 19 | September 22 |
| September 26 | September 29 |
| October 3 | October 6 |
| October 11 (Tuesday) | October 14 (Friday) |
Update
As of October 11, 2022, watermain cleaning in Vars has been completed. Thank you to all residents for your patience and support as this work was completed.
Why does the City clean its watermains?
Over time, naturally occurring mineral deposits can accumulate inside watermains. While not harmful, these deposits may cause red or rusty water during periods of high demand (increased flow) and raise concerns about water quality and taste.
As part of the City’s routine preventative maintenance program, watermain cleaning ensures the proper functioning of the water distribution system and continued delivery of high-quality drinking water to your home.
How are the watermains cleaned?
The City uses a standard industry procedure called swabbing. Polyurethane swabs slightly larger than the diameter of the watermain are inserted into the pipe through a hydrant. The swab is then pushed along the pipe by water pressure. This movement scours the mineral deposits from the inside of the pipe walls that are later flushed from the system using a hydrant.
Is the discoloured water harmful?
No. However, residents are advised not to use their hot or cold water during the maintenance period as the discoloured water may stain laundry and bathroom fixtures or damage appliances and water heaters.
After the work is complete and before use, residents are advised to run the cold water tap nearest to the water meter for a few minutes. Using the tap nearest to the water meter will assist in reducing the amount discoloured water entering your home’s plumbing.
Contact information
Please contact the City’s Call Centre at 3-1-1.
Water Information Line at 613-580-2424 ext. 21922.