Distribution

Distribution

The Utility is responsible for the maintenance, repairs, installation and operations of the transmission and distribution pipeline facilities. These facilities include transmission, distribution mains, hydrants, system valves and service lines. The system is made up of approximately 221 miles of water mains ranging in size from 4 inches to 20 inches in diameter. The utility owns over 2,790 fire hydrants, 3,136 valves and 10,573 services within the system. During the months of mid October through March, the Utility also repairs seasonal water main breaks.

Some Causes of Water Main Breaks

  • Age and deterioration of the main
  • Frost penetration
  • Pressure change or surge
  • Shifting ground
  • Corrosive soils
  • Temperature change
  • Other underground utility work in vicinity of the water main

Main breaks are top priority and a prompt response is required. The utility is often times informed of a possible main break by the general public, police patrols and voluntary phone information. Our system control center can also inform us of breaks by tower levels and the amount of pumps running.

What is a Water Emergency?

  • Water main break
  • No water to home (If you are on a private well, contact a plumber)
  • Water entering basement

Typical Questions

  • Low water pressure: If you are experiencing lower pressure than usual, check to see if the pressure is in all locations of your home, if so call the Water Utility.
  • Discolored Water: If you are currently experiencing discolored water, run cold water for about one minute. If the cold water runs clear shut off the cold water and let the hot water run for one minute. If the hot water is still discolored your hot water heater may need to be purged. If the cold water remains discolored, call the Water Utility.
  • No Water: If you turn on a faucet and find you have no water, try another faucet in your home. If you find you do have water at the second faucet, you have an internal problem. If you find no water at the second faucet, call the Water Utility.
  • Leak in Street: If you notice water bubbling up in the street or sidewalk, call the Water Utility.
  • Leaking Hydrant: If you notice a hydrant leaking, notify the Water Utility.

Some Historical Data

  • 1966: 598 hydrants, 50 miles of water main maintained
  • 1995: 1,921 hydrants,168 miles of water main maintained
  • 2012: 2,790 hydrants, 221 miles of water main maintained

For a water emergency after hours, please contact the Police Department at 262-532-1700, at which time the police dispatch will inform the Water Utility of the situation.