Kane County Reporter

The Village of Hampshire has announced that its Public Works department will begin a fire hydrant flushing program in the fall of 2025. The process involves running water through fire hydrants at high speed to remove fine sediments from the water mains. This effort is part of the village's ongoing work to maintain water quality for residents and businesses.

Residents are advised that they may notice temporary discoloration of their tap water during the flushing period. The village recommends avoiding laundry during these times and cleaning faucet screens if there is a drop in water pressure or volume.

The schedule for hydrant flushing is as follows:

- October 20-22: Old Mill Manor Subdivision, Hillcrest Ave., Highland Ave., and Panama St.

- October 22-24: White Oak Ponds and Highlands Subdivision

- October 27-29: Tuscany Woods Subdivision

- October 29-31: Historic Part of Town East of State St.

- November 3-5: Historic Part of Town West of State St.

- November 5-7: Parkside, Stonegate, and Terrabrook Subdivisions

- November 10-12: Hampshire Prairie, Meadows, and Fields

- November 12-14: Tamms Farm Subdivision

- November 17-21: Lakewood Subdivision

According to the village, "Hydrant flushing enhances water quality by flushing sediment from the pipe mains, verifies the property operation of hydrants and valves, and maintains firefighting capability."

Residents are advised to avoid using tap water, washing machines, or dishwashers while crews are working in their area. The village explains, "If you see a crew flushing hydrants on your street avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or dish washer until the flushing is done."

After flushing, if tap water appears discolored, residents should shut off the water and wait several minutes before running cold water to check clarity. The village notes, "If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that cause discoloration. Shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear, it is OK to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be a slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect water quality. There is no health hazards associated with discolored water. Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark cloths first. If Pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles."

Regarding the appearance of water after flushing, the village states, "When a hydrant is opened, there will be temporary incidences of discolored water while fine sediment particles are flushed out. There is no health hazard associated with the discolored water. Allow a few hours for discoloration to dissipate. To verify if water is clear, run your cold-water tap for a few minutes."

The village emphasizes that these measures are intended to ensure the safety and quality of Hampshire’s water supply.