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Hydrant Flushing & Flow Testing

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Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant Flushing: Starting Monday, August 30 💦💦

The Homewood Public Works Department will soon start flushing fire hydrants throughout the Village. Flushing helps to remove deposits from the water mains to improve water quality and ensure that hydrants are in working order for fire protection.

Flushing will begin at 183rd and Dixie Highway, with crews working their way south.

Please be on the lookout for signage identifying areas the crews will be working in. The Village will share future locations once confirmed.

  • Why does the Village perform hydrant flushing?

    Hydrant flushing is the quick release of water from fire hydrants. It's a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of the Village’s water distribution system. It ensures adequate water flow is available to fire fighters, residents and businesses. It also improves water quality by clearing iron and other mineral deposits from the water mains.

  • What are the effects of hydrant flushing?

    Hydrant flushing helps ensure water quality and helps avoid random bouts of rusty water if there is a high demand for water, caused by a major firefighting effort or water main break.

    During the flushing of a hydrant, some customers may notice reduced water pressure and flow.

  • Why is my water rust/tea-colored from the hydrant flushing? Is the water safe?

    Sometimes hydrant flushing can make the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and other mineral deposits in the water mains get stirred up. There is no health hazard associated with discolored water. Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however it may stain laundry.

  • My water is discolored. What should I do?

    Wait until flushing has subsided in your area, then run a cold water tap until the water runs clear.

    Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.

  • Does the Village test the water regularly? Is the testing done at various sites?

    The Village of Homewood tests the water twice a month both leaving the water plant and throughout the water system regularly, following U.S. and IL Environmental Protection Agency protocols.

  • I live on the west side, and the Village is flushing hydrants on the east side. How come my water is discolored?

    Sometimes residents who live beyond the limits of the area where hydrant flushing is currently being performed, may notice rust-colored water. This can occur because the opening of a hydrant can cause water to flow in the opposite direction than normal. Water Department personnel tries to use techniques to minimize these impacts.

  • How come my water is discolored, but my neighbor didn't notice any discoloration?

    If the water inside a home or business is turned on while hydrant flushing is going on, discolored water may enter your plumbing. If a neighbor did not use water during the day, they most likely will not notice any discoloration.

    If you notice the water flushing crew is near your property, refrain from using water, and delay washing clothes as much as possible.

  • When will the hydrant flushing take place?

    Hydrant flushing will take place between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Further questions can be answered by calling Public Works at 708-206-3470 or emailing publicworks@homewoodil.gov

Thank you for your patience and cooperation!