Water main repairs are a crucial aspect of maintaining a functioning infrastructure in a city like Chicago. Water mains are underground pipes that supply water to homes and businesses; they are usually equipped to withstand the test of time and weather but sometimes a water main can experience a burst, leading to an emergency situation. In such cases, immediate repairs are necessary to avert any damage and ensure residents have access to functioning water supplies. This article highlights the critical aspects surrounding emergency water main repairs in Chicago, shedding some light on the need for timely repair services.
Understanding the Water Main System in Chicago
Water mains in Chicago are engineered to cater to the needs of the densely populated bi-level city and are located underground, making it challenging to spot signs of damage. The water main system has been in existence for over a century, and as with anything of that age, breakages are just a matter of time. When a water main ruptures or experiences a leak, the city responds quickly to ensure water supply restoration. Your role as a homeowner is to report suspicious water signs to your local water department ASAP.
The Signs of Water Main Failure
Homeowners in Chicago can sometimes experience lesser water pressure than usual or even notice murky brown water. This usually indicates that there is a break or leak in the water main somewhere, leading to contamination or sedimentation. If there is an unusual patch of wet ground or water pooling, it may suggest a burst water pipe and emergency repair is necessary. Burst water mains can also lead to flooded basements and, in the worst-case scenario; destruction of homes, particularly if it goes unnoticed for too long.
Who is responsible for paying for repairs?
The water main situated on your property is usually your responsibility, whereas the one on the street is up to the city to manage. However, if you damage the water main on the street while carrying out some maintenance on your property, you will have to pay to have it repaired. Homeowners are also responsible for any damage caused by a failure of the water service line. In Chicago, private insurance policies are available for those concerned about liability in case of water main damage.
Why Emergency Repairs?
Water main breaks require immediate attention, as they can quickly lead to secondary water damage or loss of supply among the affected residences and businesses. Emergency repairs are crucial for several reasons. For one, the damage may cause further loss of water supply necessary for daily living; for example, imagine having no access to water for a few days during winter, when it is very cold. Secondly, it opens up the possibility of water getting to electrical outlets and wiring, leading to short circuiting and electrocution. Thirdly, untreated water can lead to contamination, leading to illness and other health conditions.
What to do in case of a water main break?
If you suspect a water main break around your locality or within your property, here are some of the steps you need to take. Firstly, call the Chicago Department of Water Management at (312)744-8118; they will dispatch a team to investigate the problem. Turn off all water appliances within your home, and consider shutting off your water main valve outside your home to contain the damage. If you notice someone working on a water main, find an alternative water source as the water may be contaminated.
How to Prevent Water Main Breaks?
While it’s not possible to prevent all water main breaks, there are several maintenance strategies that homeowners can undertake to minimize the risk. For example, it may help to hire professional plumbers to assess your water main periodically, especially if you experience brown or foul-smelling water or lower water pressure. Additionally, try to avoid pouring grease, oil, or other debris down the drain or abandoned sump pumps in your property.
Conclusion
In conclusion, water main repair service is essential for keeping the infrastructure in Chicago running correctly and reducing any water damage that may occur. Water mains are crucial to ensuring communities have access to a steady water supply. Still, it requires close monitoring and quick action to ensure they maintain integrity. If there is a break or leak in the water main in your neighborhood, make sure to report it and follow the steps above to ensure your safety and protect your property.
If you are in need of emergency water main repair service, give us a call at 708-859-7540 or by filling out the form below: