Water Distribution System

Repair and maintenance of over 250 miles of pressurized water main, over 3,000 fire hydrants, and almost 4,000 water valves. Other activities include the systematic operation of water valves and utility locating services for public utilities.

Fire Hydrant Flushing

This is an annual activity that provides Ames residents with the safest and highest water quality. Hydrant flushing helps with:

Dislodging and removing mineral deposits and sediments from the water mains.
Verifying the proper operation of fire hydrants and valves.
Identify weaknesses in the water system.
Checking for closed valves and weak flows in the water system.

Water in the vicinity of flushing activities may appear discolored as sediment is flushed from the system. Residents should run the cold water tap for a few minutes to verify the clarity and avoid using hot water for things like dishwashing or laundry if water is discolored. If discoloration is apparent, residents should flush their household system by opening several cold-water taps at once until the water is clear. If discolored water causes staining problems, rust remover is available free of charge at the City Hall information desk, the Ames Water Plant, 1800 E. 13th St., all fire stations, or by calling 515.239.5550 during business hours, or 515.239.5150 after 3 p.m.

Watermain Breaks

Watermain breaks do occur in the system and are most prevalent in winter months when the ground is actively moving from freeze/thaw cycles. The City averages around 30 watermain breaks per year. If residents notice water bubbling from the ground, please call the Ames Water Plant at 515.239.5150 to notify operators of a potential watermain break.

Water Services

The adjacent property owner owns the piping from the City’s watermain, including the tap into the watermain. Water services can fail and leak at times and it is the responsibility of the property owner to repair any water service leak.