2019 Spring Hydrant Flushing Begins March 18

The City of St. Charles is performing its spring hydrant flushing March 18 to April 19. Please note that hydrant flushing could temporarily cause rusty-looking water, even for homes outside the particular flushing area. The discoloration is caused by minerals that get stirred up in the water mains.

The Public Works Water Division performs hydrant flushing in the spring and fall as part of the regular maintenance to the City’s water distribution system. By simply flushing hydrants to allow water to flow rapidly through them, water quality is improved and mineral build-up in the water mains is minimized. Hydrant flushing also ensures that hydrants are ready for emergency use.

St. Charles is divided into zones for hydrant flushing: Northwest, Southwest, Southeast, and Northeast. Main Street (IL Rt 64) divides the north/south areas, and the Fox River divides the east/west. For more information and a list of frequently asked questions about hydrant flushing, visit https://www.stcharlesil.gov/ne....

The spring 2019 hydrant flushing schedule:

• Northwest – Monday March 18 - Friday March 22
• Southwest – Monday March 25 - Friday March 29
• Southeast – Monday April 1 - Friday April 5
• Northeast (West of Dunham Road) – Monday April 8 - Friday April 12
• Northeast (East of Dunham Road) – Monday April 15 -Friday April 19

Watch for signs announcing hydrant flushing. Flushing may start as early at 5 a.m. and continue through 4 p.m.

Watch for Rusty Water

Please note water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing. However, water may temporarily be rusty colored. Consider the following actions during hydrant flushing:

• Limit your water use, if possible.
• If you notice rusty water, 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 South 7th Avenue
• City Hall, Reception Desk, 2 East Main Street
• Police Department, 211 North Riverside Avenue

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