More efficient flushing techniques
In the early 1990s, EPCOR developed a highly efficient process called unidirectional flushing. This process uses less water, and therefore less energy, and more effectively removes more mineral and biological deposits in water distribution lines than traditional flushing methods.
EPCOR has worked with a number of communities (Boulder, Colorado; Whitehorse, Yukon) to implement this process into their operations.
Reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide
UDF is a method recommended by the American Waterworks Association for cleaning the inside of distribution pipes to ensure high water quality. It also reduces carbon dioxide from the system by about 650 tonnes per year due to more efficient flushing of the system.
“EPCOR Water was one of the first utilities in North America to implement the program on a city-wide basis,” said Susan Ancel, EPCOR's Director of Network Services and Operations. “Our annual water loss percentages have dropped from a high of 9% to 4.9% since the program was implemented in 1995, showing the impact of the more efficient flushing using less water.”
Different water valves are systematically shut down to increase water velocity; the fast-moving water scours away mineral and biological deposits that build up inside pipes. Then a hydrant is opened to flow the water and particles out. This is done in each area of the city every one to three years. Any hydrants that aren’t unidirectionally flushed in a year are purged to ensure they remain in good working order.
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