Hydrant Flushing

About hydrant flushing

In the Spring and Fall, the Department of Public Works flushes hydrants Village wide.  Hydrants may be flushed at other times but this is on a case by case basis.  Hydrant flushing is an important routine and preventive maintenance task that helps remove built-up rust, sediment, and minerals from the water distribution system, verifies proper hydrant operation, evaluates hydrant flow, and replenishes fresh potable water.  Blue "Hydrant Flushing" signs are placed at road intersections and throughout neighborhoods to alert residents and businesses that hydrant flushing is happening in the area. Flushing begins at the Water Treatment Plant located near the intersection of Water St. and Park St., and proceeds outward. Crews usually progress towards the north part of the Village first, and once complete, crews progress south.

During flushing, residents and businesses may experience brief disruptions in water service and/or water may become discolored from iron (rust) in the pipes.  Iron is not considered hazardous to health, according to the Illinois Dept. of Public Health, but Public Works still recommends that consumers refrain from using discolored water until it runs clear.  When flushing is complete in your area, residents and business may have to run water from all faucets to clear out any discolored water that may still be within interior plumbing.  It is also recommended that you DO NOT wash clothes when your area is being flushed.  If your laundry does become discolored, keep the items wet and pick up a free bottle of Red-B-Gone at Village Hall for rewashing any affected laundry.

Next scheduled flushing

The next hydrant flushing will begin Monday, September 18, 2023 and continue for approximatley 3-4 weeks until complete. No flushing will be done on the weekends.

Keep up with the progress of crews as they work through the Village by viewing the progression map below to best determine when your area will be flushed, or call Public Works at 708-503-7702.

Hydrant Flushing Map

Highlighted areas are approximate locations only. Click on your neighborhood to view tentative dates when specific areas will be flushed.