When does hydrant flushing take place?
Why are hydrants flushed?
What can I do to prevent my pipes from freezing?
I’m experiencing low water pressure, what can I do?
When is the water sprinkling ban? What are the restrictions?
My water bill was higher this month, why?

When does hydrant flushing take place?
Hydrant flushing usually happens in the Fall or Spring of each year; flushing takes place between 9:00 am – 1:00 pm – Monday through Friday. Watch for signs posted in your neighborhood advising of the exact days.

Why are hydrants flushed?
Hydrants are flushed to circulate fresh water. Most municipal water systems perform annual hydrant flushing to ensure delivery of the best water quality.

Tap water may be discolored in your immediate area during flushing. Run water for a few minutes and make sure it is clear before using. Be sure to check the water before washing clothes, as sediment in the water may stain clothing.

What can I do to prevent my pipes from freezing?
If you are leaving town for an extended time period during the winter season, it is recommended that you leave your furnace thermostat set at a minimum of 50 degrees while you're away. If this is not possible, you should have your water turned off outside at the B-box by the Public Works Department. Contact the Public Works Department for more information.

I’m experiencing low water pressure, what can I do?
If you experience low water pressure throughout the entire residence and it occurred suddenly, you should check the valves located on each side of the water meter and verify they are completely opened. These valves may be partially closed by children playing, or if a contractor was working on the system.

If the low pressure has occurred over time and is noticeable at only one or two faucets, try cleaning out the aerators on the faucets in question. Simply unscrew the aerator from the faucet, remove the pieces, and rinse water backwards through the aerator.

If you continue to experience low pressure, please contact the Public Works Department.

When is the water sprinkling ban? What are the restrictions?
The Water Sprinkling Ban is in effect from May 15th to October 1st from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.

The Ban states that no person, firm, or corporation shall use or permit the use of water supplied by the Village of Hoffman Estates for sprinkling or watering lawns or shrubbery, or for other outside purposes such as, car washing, swimming pool filling, settling of trenches and recreational use of garden hoses and their attachments.

My water bill was higher this month, why?
Water meters may occasionally malfunction. However, when they do, the new Mach-10 meters will generally fail to register.

If you experience a significant increase in your water bill, you should do the following:

• Check all of your toilets. Leaking toilets are a major cause of high water usage.
• Check your outside hose spigots for signs of leaks. Do not leave hoses connected in winter months.
• Find a time when no water will be used, then check your water meter for signs of movement.
• On the new Mach-10 meter, look for the LCD display of a little faucet or a triangle with a plus symbol. If either of these are displayed, it is a sign of a leak or continuous consumption.

Remember that there is a one- to two-month delay in the billing process. Your current bill is reflective of past usage. Try to recall if your usage was higher during that time period (watering performed during summer months, etc.). Should you need assistance with locating a possible leak, please call the Public Works Department. 

 Public Works Department - (847) 490-6800 - PublicWorks@HoffmanEstates.org