Fall Hydrant Flushing Begins Oct. 14

Published on October 07, 2024

A City worker works on a fire hydrant that has water coming out of it.

The City of St. Charles’ Public Works Water Division will conduct its regular fall hydrant flushing beginning Oct. 14 and continuing through Nov. 8. Hydrant flushing may begin as early as 5 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. Public Works performs hydrant flushing twice a year as part of general maintenance to the City's water distribution system as it helps reduce mineral build-up, improves water quality, and ensures hydrants are ready for emergency use. 

Hydrant flushing could temporarily cause water discoloration, even for homes located outside the designated flushing areas. Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however it may stain laundry. The discoloration is caused by minerals that get stirred up in the water mains. For more information, the City’s website has a list of frequently asked questions about hydrant flushing.

St. Charles is divided into zones for hydrant flushing. Main Street (IL Rt 64) divides the north/south areas, and the Fox River divides the east/west. Outer Zones: Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast. Inner Zones: River Valley East and West.

Hydrant Flushing Schedule
Signs announcing hydrant flushing will be posted in affected neighborhoods.

  • River Valley East & West – Monday, Oct. 14 – Friday, Oct. 18
  • Northwest & Southwest – Monday, Oct. 21 – Friday, Oct. 25
  • Southwest & Southeast – Monday, Oct. 28 – Friday, Nov. 1
  • Northeast – Monday, Nov. 4 – Friday, Nov. 8

Discolored Water Possible
Consider the following actions during hydrant flushing:

  • Limit water use, if possible.
  • If water appears discolored, wait until flushing has subsided then run the cold water tap in your bathtub or utility sink until it runs clear (or in 10-minute increments).
  • 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 stain remover at no cost to residents at the following facilities:

  • Public Works, 1405 S. 7th Ave., St. Charles
  • City Hall, Reception Desk, 2 E. Main Street, St. Charles

For questions, contact the Public Works Department at 630.377.4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov.

 

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