Water main breaks are a concern that can impact our community's water supply and infrastructure. Understanding the signs and knowing how to respond can help mitigate potential damage and service disruptions.
What Causes Water Main Breaks?
Water main breaks occur when underground pipes that deliver water to homes, businesses, and fire hydrants crack, leak, or burst. Several factors contribute to these incidents:
- Aging Infrastructure: Many of the Village’s water mains are made of cast iron, which is prone to corrosion and breaks over time. As the system ages, these pipes become increasingly susceptible to failure and require proactive maintenance or replacement.
- Temperature Fluctuations: As the ground freezes and thaws, the surrounding soil expands, contracts, and shifts. This movement can place added stress on buried water mains, making breaks more likely during seasonal transitions.
- Soil Shifts: Changes in soil conditions, such as settling or erosion, can exert uneven pressure on water mains. Over time, this pressure causes stress that can weaken the pipes.
- Nearby Construction: Excavation, heavy machinery, and construction activities in close proximity to water mains can disturb the surrounding ground and inadvertently damage underground utilities.
Signs of a Water Main Break
Be vigilant for the following indicators of a potential water main break:
- Unusual Water Accumulation: Pools of water on streets or sidewalks without a clear source.
- Water Bubbling from Ground: Water emerging from cracks in the road or sidewalk.
- Decreased Water Pressure: A sudden drop in water pressure in your home or business.
- Discolored or Cloudy Water: Tap water that appears cloudy or has a brownish tint.
If you observe any of these signs, it's crucial to report them promptly.
🎥 Watch: How to Identify a Water Main Break (1-minute video)
This short video shows real-life examples of what a water main break might look like in Carol Stream, so you’ll know what to watch for in your neighborhood and how to report it.
How to Report a Water Main Break
Timely reporting allows the Village's Public Works Department to address issues swiftly, minimizing potential damage and service interruptions. Here's how you can report:
- During Business Hours: Contact the Public Works Department at (630) 871-6260.
- After Hours: Call 9-1-1
Your proactive approach helps ensure the safety and well-being of our community.
Ongoing Infrastructure Improvements
The Village of Carol Stream is committed to maintaining and upgrading its water infrastructure. Initiatives include:
- Water Meter Replacements: Beginning in January 2026, the Village will replace over 11,000 aging water meters over several years to improve leak detection and billing accuracy.
- Water Reclamation Center Upgrades: Starting in 2026, outdated equipment at the Water Reclamation Center will be replaced to enhance wastewater treatment efficiency.
These projects aim to provide residents with dependable water services and minimize disruptions.
For more information:
