Show All Answers

1. What if the main shut off valve is not functioning in an emergency?

Call Public Works during hours of operation at 708-352-2922 to shut off water at the buffalo box. For assistance after hours call the Police non-emergency number at 708-352-2151.

2. Where is the shut off valve?

There are 2 main shut off valves in a line service to the home. One valve is located in the home next to the water meter. Additional valves may be near plumbing appliances such as sinks and toilets. The other main valve called a curb stop, is generally located in the parkway housed by a cylinder cap referred to as a buffalo box or B-Box. The home owner maintains all valves with the exception of the curb stop.

3. What is water service?

A pipe solely designed for the purpose of delivering fresh potable water to your home plumbing fixtures (i.e. sinks, toilets, showers, etc.) The pipe begins with a connection to the water main at the shutoff valve in the village right of way and extends into the house or commercial building.

4. What part of water service is the homeowner’s responsibility?

The resident is responsible for the maintenance beginning after the buffalo box and extending up through the entire home. The water meter is the property of the Village, any valves adjacent to the water meter are the resident’s responsibility to maintain.

5. Is maintenance of the shut off valve required?

A valve in good working condition will assure ease of shut off during an emergency. Older style gate valves should be turned periodically to prevent corrosion build-up. Newer Teflon coated ball valves should stay in good condition without regular required turning.

6. What if the pipes freeze?

Visit the Red Cross website for suggestions if you suspect a frozen pipe. If you are unable to locate the frozen area or not accessible, call a licensed plumber. Never try and thaw a pipe with a blowtorch or other open flame device. All open flame devices present a serious fire danger and risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.

7. Why are there utility flags in my parkway?

All excavators are required to contact Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators (JULIE) prior to digging allowing underground cables and pipes to be identified and undisturbed during an excavation.

8. Why is the water bill high?

Leaking toilets and faucets, malfunctioning water softeners and water powered sump pumps can cause most high water bills. Plumbing fixtures should be checked regularly. Check the toilet flush valve by adding food coloring to the flush tank and observe if color is present without flushing, concluding the flapper valve likely leaks if color is present in the bowl.

9. Who do I contact for water billing questions?

Contact the Village Hall Water Billing Department at 708-354-0225.

10. Who do I contact about the water quality?

Call the Public Works department at 708-352-2922.