Councillor's Statement As Carp Watermain Swabbing and Cleaning Gets Underway
- Ward 5 Staff
- 20 hours ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 14 minutes ago
Councillor Kelly's Statement, July 7, 2025
Today marks the start of the City's watermain swabbing and cleaning program in the Village of Carp, an essential part of maintaining a clean, high-quality water supply in our community.
Unfortunately, it looks like the early stages of the rollout have caused confusion and concern for many residents. What should have been a well-planned, positive effort has been overshadowed by inconsistent communications to affected residents.
I had early conversations with City staff about this program, and I know there was a genuine desire to ensure things ran smoothly. However, with some of the mixed messaging we're seeing, it's made it difficult for affected residents to plan with confidence.
I’ve shared this feedback with the City and will continue to advocate for clearer, more reliable communication as this work progresses. At the same time, I want to recognize the efforts made by the City to support local businesses and minimize service disruptions wherever possible.
The most up-to-date schedule, organized street by street, is now available here: https://tinyurl.com/yfatpw37, and the City says it will be updated daily. So I encourage all affected residents to check it regularly.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding. If you need clarification about your address or schedule, you can contact the City directly at swabbing.prog.nettoyage@ottawa.ca.
Best regards,
Clarke
What is watermain swabbing and cleaning and why is this maintenance so important?
✔️ Ensures clean, safer drinking water
✔️ Provides better water flow and pressure
✔️ Helps extend the life of underground infrastructure
Here’s an example of what a neglected water pipe can look like. Carp’s water pipes are nowhere near this state, but could be someday if not properly maintained.
Watermain swabbing involves inserting a foam swab into the pipe, which is then propelled through the main to scrub and remove these deposits. This process effectively cleans the interior surfaces of the pipes without the use of chemicals, ensuring that any buildup is safely and thoroughly eliminated. This essential maintenance plays a crucial role in preserving water quality and safeguarding public health.
What to Expect When We’re Working on Your Street in Carp
During swabbing operations, there will be temporary water service interruptions or slight changes in water pressure. This work may disturb sediments. You might notice temporary cloudiness or discoloration (red or rusty) in your water after the process. The sediments are not harmful however they may stain your laundry or bathroom fixtures. This is normal and should be cleared after running your cold water tap for a minimum of five minutes or until the water runs clear. We recommend the following precautions before and after maintenance to minimize disruption and reduce the risk of staining.
Preparing for watermain swabbing and cleaning
Before maintenance:
Save enough water ahead of time to use during the day:
· Draw water before the work starts and save it in containers for drinking and cooking.
· Put a jug of water in your refrigerator for convenience.
· Fill your bathtub and transfer water to your toilet as needed:
· Direct pour method: Fill a bucket with water from your bathtub. Lift the toilet seat and pour the water directly into the toilet bowl. Pouring the water in quickly will create a siphoning effect, flushing the toilet.
· Toilet tank method: Fill a bucket with water from your bathtub. Remove the lid of the toilet tank and pour the water into the tank until it reaches the fill line. Flush the toilet as you normally would.
During maintenance:
- Turn off your water before the work begins and keep it off until the work is finished:
- Close the valve at the water meter, usually located in the basement beside your water meter.
- Do not use any hot or cold water inside or outside your home.
- Notify your insurance company if you have a sprinkler system for fire protection.
- If it is not possible to turn off your water or it is not convenient to do so:
- Do not use any hot or cold water inside or outside your home.
- Disconnect your water softener to prevent it from drawing water during the day.
- On the day that work is taking place on your street, do not use any hot or cold water between 8:30 am and 6 pm.
After maintenance:
- Turn on the water to flush your pipes before using the water:
- Open the valve at the water meter. Do not use the water for drinking, cooking, or cleaning until after you flush your pipes.
- To flush your water pipes:
- Select a cold water tap that is closest to, but located after, the water meter. Ideally, this tap should not have a screen, such as a tap found in a laundry room or outdoors.
- Turn on the tap and let the water run for a few minutes to ensure any sediments or impurities are flushed out.
- Consider using the water for another purpose, such as watering your plants or garden.
- If your laundry becomes stained or discoloured:
- Call or contact 3-1-1. City staff will provide a product called Red-Be-Gone free of charge, which can be added to laundry to remove stains.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this essential maintenance work.
