Hydrant Flushing Starts Monday In St. Charles

ST. CHARLES, IL — Some St. Charles residents could see discolored water coming from their taps during a monthlong hydrant flushing program that kicks off on Monday.

In a notice to residents, the City of St. Charles said water discoloration can result from minerals that get stirred up in water mains during flushing. Households outside of the flushing area could also experience the phenomenon.

The notice states flushing is a regular maintenance practice that helps remove mineral buildup inside water mains and keep hydrants ready for emergency use.

Residents can check to see when hydrants in their individual neighborhoods will be serviced through the city's My Neighborhood application.

From Sept. 14 through 18, hydrants in the city's southwest quadrant will be flushed.

The operation will move on Sept. 21 to the southwest quadrant and to the southeast quadrant on Sept. 28. Hydrants in the northeast quadrant, west of Dunham Road, will be purged starting on Oct. 5, and, lastly, the northeast quadrant east of Dunham Road will be purged starting Oct. 12.

Residents who see discolored or rust-colored water are encouraged to limit water use during the purge period then flush the cold water tap in 10 minute increments until water runs clear.

The city warns rust colored water, while safe, can stain laundry. Stained clothes should be kept damp and treated with a stain remover that can be obtained for free either at Public Works, 1405 S. 7th Avenue, or at the City Hall Front Reception Desk at 2 E. Main Street.