Unitywater has an extensive and ongoing hydrant and valve replacement program in place to safeguard the public by ensuring fire hydrants and associated valves are accessible and fully functioning. This annual maintenance program replaces old or defective fire hydrants and valves with new, long-lasting parts and equipment to provide improved flow and water quality. 

Affected customers are notified in advance of any potential water supply interruption by a notification card in their letterbox detailing the water outage time frames, what to expect and what to do after the works have been completed. 

Want to know more? Read the works notification card placed in your letterbox (affected customers), see the hydrant and valve replacement FAQs below or contact us.

We also welcome your feedback on this program.

Hydrant and Valve 

 

 Hydrant and valve replacement truck on side of road with safety signage

Hydrant and valve replacement FAQs

Hydrant and valve replacement works are needed to ensure water supply is delivered at or above minimum pressure standards according to our Customer Charter, is sufficient for system operation and that flow rates are enhanced to improve fire-fighting requirements.

It is very important that emergency services personnel have easy access to hydrants with sufficient water pressure and flow rates for fire-fighting.

We have hydrants and valves in our network that are nearing the end of their useful life. Older water main fittings can develop internal blockages, reducing the effective flow of water required for fire-fighting and system operation.

Some fittings are located in driveways or road reserves which may result in damage to the hydrant or valve. Over time, some fire hydrants have become obstructed by landscaping or are not easily accessible to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services personnel.

Our replacement program addresses all of these issues.

Access is critical. If you have a fire hydrant on or near your property, please:

  • keep it clear of any obstruction or debris, including garden mulch
  • do not park any vehicles over it.

There are laws to protect access to fire hydrants so do the right thing and keep your community safe.  

Please contact us if you see a damaged valve or hydrant, or a potential water leak.

Fire hydrants are usually located on the nature strip and have a yellow lid. A blue cat’s eye on the road indicates their location.

If you're going to be affected by potential water supply interruption, you'll receive a works notification card in your letterbox detailing the water outage time frames, what to expect and what to do after the works have been completed.

If you still have questions after reading the works notification card, please contact us.