Hydrants

Morgantown Utility Board is responsible for providing fire service to the City of Morgantown. As a part of this responsibility we work with the Morgantown Fire Department to test hydrants to ensure that each device is both functioning properly and maintains pressure necessary to fight fires. Flushing also serves to remove sediment from the system which helps maintain a high quality of water.

What happens during testing?

  1. Decreases in Water Pressure
    When a hydrant is opened, water flowing through the system increases dramatically. This increase in flow to the hydrant can cause a drop in residential and business water pressure while flushing is occurring. Water pressure should return to normal after flushing has occurred. If it does not, please check other taps in your home to ensure that debris is not lodged in a faucet. If a lack of water pressure continues, please contact us at (304) 292-8443 or via email at mubmail@mub.org.
  2. Water Discoloration
    Increases in flows during flushing can stir up minerals and deposits in the pipes and clear them out. When this happens, residents and businesses may notice that their water has become discolored. Should this occur, run your faucet on cold at the lowest point of the house until the water runs clear, which may take 10-15 minutes. If your water doesn't clear the first time, wait a few minutes and repeat this process. You should also remember to avoid washing clothes until the water clears. If your water still does not clear after taking these steps, please call MUB at (304) 292-8443.

We remind residents that opening fire hydrants is not only illegal, but very dangerous. An open hydrant exposes water with extreme force that could easily cause injury. This volume of water is dangerous for both motorists and pedestrians. We also remind residents that hydrants should remain visible, should not be tampered with, and not be blocked by cars or shrubs as this might delay fire fighters trying to extinguish a fire.