ALTON — On Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, Illinois American Water will begin its annual maintenance program in the Alton water system that includes testing and flushing fire hydrants in addition to a temporary change in water treatment. This annual maintenance work supports continued delivery of water and fire protection to homes and businesses. The maintenance program will continue through Oct. 5.
WATER MAIN AND FIRE HYDRANT FLUSHING
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Flushing the water system and checking hydrants, in support of fire protection, entails sending a rapid flow of water through the water mains. While Illinois American Water crews are testing and flushing the system and fire hydrants, customers may experience a temporary drop in water pressure or draw some discolored water for a short period. If discolored water occurs, it is recommended that customers refrain from doing laundry and let their cold water run briefly; the water should clear up on its own.
TEMPORARY WATER TREATMENT CHANGE
In addition to the water main and hydrant flushing, Illinois American Water’s water quality team will be switching water treatment to a form of chlorine known as “free chlorine,” which does not contain ammonia at the water treatment plant in Alton. This stronger disinfectant is typically used by water utilities when flushing water mains and fire hydrants. Chlorine is commonly used in public water systems as a disinfectant and is monitored closely by our water quality professionals. This process occurs annually.
During the temporary water treatment change, customers may experience chlorine taste or odor in their water. There is no reason for concern. This is due to the switch in chlorine types. Institutions with additional water purification filters for special needs, for instance hospitals and dialysis centers, have been contacted about this water treatment change. Anyone with questions about their personal health and health care equipment should reach out to their healthcare provider.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The maintenance program will occur in all direct service communities including Alton, Godfrey, Grafton, Forest Homes, and Elsah. This work will also include sale-for-resale (wholesale) communities including Chautauqua, Fosterburg, Jersey County Rural Water, and Storyland Mobile Home Park.
Direct customers are being notified of this work via the company’s notification system which includes calls, emails and/or texts customers based on their preferences. Customers are encouraged to update their contact information to receive updates about water service emergencies and work. Customers can update their information online via MyWater. For additional information, customers are encouraged to visit the ‘Alerts’ page at www.illinoisamwater.com.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 19 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook,X and Instagram.
About Illinois American Water
Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state with approximately 600 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville.
