The City of Elgin Water Department reminds residents to take preventive action to guard against freezing pipes during the severe cold weather.
Frequently, water pipes in unheated areas exposed to drafts or open windows will freeze. Residents can help prevent freezing pipes by making minor repairs to prevent drafts, heating, or insulating the exposed water pipes. If a pipe freezes, the problem can be resolved by gradually heating the frozen section of pipe with a fan or hair drier. People are cautioned not to use an open flame to thaw frozen pipes as this is a fire hazard.
Even more critical is the problem that occurs with the continuation of severe cold weather. Frost is driven into the ground where service lines carrying water to the customer may become frozen. People with this problem should call the Elgin Water Department at 847-697-3160. To prevent this problem, residents are advised to run a small amount of water in a sink, providing for movement in the water.
Large amounts of water running down the street, is an indication that a water main has broken. Timely repair by the Water Department minimizes damage and limits the amount of water loss. Residents are asked to report main breaks to the Elgin Water Department at 847-697-3160.