Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant Flushing Program
Each spring, Public Works personnel conduct hydrant flushing to ensure the hydrants are operating properly. Additionally, this allows staff to remove sediment from the pipes in order to maintain water clarity and quality.

Program Details
Hydrants are flushed Monday thru Friday. Typically, the entire Village is flushed during a 2-week period. 

Rusty Water
As previously described, fire hydrants are periodically opened to flush water mains in the system. Additionally, the Village of Arlington Heights Fire Department and Public Works departments routinely use hydrants to make assessments as to whether adequate pressure and flow are available to satisfy normal system demands as well as the increased demand required in the event of a fire. These actions, as well as some construction activities, may result in brief periods during which water customers may observe moderate discoloration in your tap water.

Is Rusty Water Safe For Consumption? 
Yes. Occasionally water becomes discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens, residents are encouraged to let their faucets run for a few minutes if they notice any discoloration. If it does not clear the first time, people should wait a few minutes and run the water again. Residents should avoid washing clothes until the water is clear.

Contact Us
Questions regarding the City's hydrant flushing program should be directed to the Water Distribution Unit at 847-368-5800.