Annual maintenance may cause lower water pressure, discoloration in southwest Illinois
Residents in Belleville, East St. Louis and Granite City may experience changes in their water over the next two months as Illinois American Water conducts its annual maintenance program.
The company said through a release that the program would include testing and flushing fire hydrants in addition to temporary changes in water treatment.
“This annual program supports continued water quality and fire protection,” the release stated. “While Illinois American Water crews are working, customers may experience a slight drop in water pressure or draw some discolored water for a short period of time.”
If discoloration occurs, customers are instructed to let their cold water run briefly and allow it clear up on its own. Customers should also refrain from doing laundry at that time.
Illinois American Water’s water quality team will also be switching water treatment to a form of chlorine known as “free chlorine,” which does not contain ammonia. According to the release, this stronger disinfectant is typically used by water utilities when flushing water mains and fire hydrants.
“If you have a health care need that requires purified or filtered water, you should reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions,” the release stated. “During the temporary treatment change, customers may experience a more noticeable chlorine taste or odor in their water. There is no reason for concern. This is due to the switch in chlorine types.”
The company said that the work is not related to the coronavirus pandemic and that this testing occurs annually.
The release also stated that landlords are responsible for letting their tenants know about the upcoming temporary changes.
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