The City of St. Charles is flushing hydrants beginning Monday, October 6 and continuing through Friday, October 31. Please note that hydrant flushing could temporarily cause water discoloration, even for homes outside the particular flushing area. The discoloration is caused by minerals that get stirred up in the water mains.
Public Works performs hydrant flushing as part of the regular maintenance to the City's water distribution system. Flushing water through the mains helps reduce mineral build-up and ensures the hydrants are ready for emergency use.
St. Charles is divided into zones for hydrant flushing: Outer zones: Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast and River Valley Inner zone East and West. Main Street (IL Rt. 64) divides the north/south areas and the Fox River divides the east/west.
HYDRANT FLUSHING SCHEDULE
Signs announcing hydrant flushing will be posted in affected neighborhoods. Flushing may start as early as 5 a.m. and continue through 4 p.m.
Discolored Water Possible
Please note water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing. Reference frequently asked questions and facts for actions to consider during hydrant flushing.
The City offers stain remover, at no cost, to residents at the following facilities:
Hydrant flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants. It’s a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of the City’s water distribution system. It ensures adequate water flow is available to fire fighters, residents and businesses. It also improves water quality by clearing iron and other mineral deposits from the water mains.
Hydrant flushing helps ensure water quality and helps avoid random bouts of rusty water if there is a high demand for water, caused by a major firefighting effort or water main break.
During the flushing of a hydrant, some customers may notice reduced water pressure and flow.
Sometimes hydrant flushing can make the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and other mineral deposits in the water mains get stirred up. There is no health hazard associated with discolored water. Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however it may stain laundry.
The City of St. Charles tests the water both leaving the water plant and throughout the water system regularly, following U.S. and IL Environmental Protection Agency protocols. Many tests are also completed around the clock during the water treatment process.
Sometimes residents who live beyond the limits of the area where hydrant flushing is currently being performed, may notice rust-colored water. This can occur because the opening of a hydrant can cause water run in the opposite direction than normal Water Department personnel use techniques intended to minimize these impacts.
If the water inside a home or business is turned on while hydrant flushing is going on, discolored water may enter your plumbing. If a neighbor did not use water during the day, they most likely will not notice any discoloration.
Wait until flushing has subsided in your area then run a cold water tap until the water runs clear.
Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.
The City offers a stain removal product at no cost to residents at the following facilities:
If you notice the water flushing crew is near your property, refrain from using water, and delay washing clothes as much as possible.
Hydrant flushing is performed two times a year – once in the spring and once in the fall. The work is generally done between 5:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
If you have any further questions, please contact Public Works at 630-377-4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov