The City of Prince Albert will begin its annual hydraulic flushing program in Zone 1 during the week of August 31, 2026, as part of routine maintenance designed to protect water quality and maintain the reliability of the municipal water distribution system.
The work will cover areas north of 19th Street and is expected to continue for approximately four to six weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Hydraulic Flushing Scheduled Monday Through Friday
Hydraulic flushing operations are scheduled to take place Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
The city conducts the maintenance program annually to clear sediment and mineral deposits that can accumulate inside water mains over time. The process involves moving water through the pipes at high velocity, helping scour the interior of the mains and remove buildup.
The maintenance is intended to support consistent water quality while helping preserve the long-term performance and reliability of the city’s water infrastructure.
Zone 1 will be the focus of the 2026 program, while hydraulic flushing in Zone 2 is scheduled for fall 2027.
Residents May Notice Temporary Water Changes
Many households are not expected to experience interruptions to their water service while flushing is underway. However, some residents may temporarily notice reduced water pressure or discolored water.
Flushing in an individual area can take anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours. Residents are encouraged to avoid using water whenever possible while crews are actively flushing nearby water mains.
Household Systems Should Be Turned Off During Flushing
Residents should temporarily turn off time-delayed or automated systems that use water while flushing is taking place in their area.
These systems may include dishwashers, coffee makers, water softeners, water filtration equipment and lawn sprinkler systems. Limiting water use during the work can reduce the possibility of sediment or discolored water entering household plumbing or appliances.
The city will provide information about active flushing locations through an interactive map once operations begin.
Preventive Maintenance Supports Water Infrastructure
Hydraulic flushing is a standard preventive maintenance technique used to improve conditions inside municipal water mains. Sediment and naturally occurring mineral deposits can build up within pipes as a water distribution network operates over time.
By sending water through the mains at increased velocity, crews can loosen and remove those deposits from the system.
For Prince Albert residents north of 19th Street, the main impact of the 2026 program is expected to be temporary and localized. With work scheduled over four to six weeks beginning August 31, residents are advised to watch for flushing activity in their area and limit water use while crews are working nearby.
The annual program is part of the city’s broader effort to maintain water quality and keep its distribution infrastructure operating reliably over the long term.