FAQs • Cary, IL • CivicEngage

Can the wastewater treatment plant safely remove anything we put down the drain?: No. Nothing should be flushed down the sanitary sewer other than toilet paper, regardless of what the packaging promises. Specifically, do NOT flush disposable mop refills, disinfecting wipes, personal or baby wipes, toilet cleaning pads, feminine hygiene products or moist towelettes.

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Water and Wastewater

1. Where does my drinking water come from?: The Village's drinking water is derived from groundwater in nine (9) municipal wells. The groundwater is treated and stored in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).

2. How safe is my drinking water?: The Village of Cary is proud of its longstanding tradition of providing safe, clean potable water. The Public Works Department has consistently received fluoridation awards from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) annually since 1995. In addition, the Village has never been in violation of any federal or state EPA laws. For more information, please read the Consumer Confidence Report which is published on an annual basis. Click here for more information.

3. I don't like the taste, smell or appearance of my tap water. Is there something wrong?: No. There are several naturally occurring minerals in the Village's water supply. If there is a water heater in your residence or business, a smell may be the result of small levels of hydrogen sulfide (which is present in groundwater) reacting to the anode rod located inside your water heater. On occasion, the water source for your residence or business may change based on system demand or facility repairs. This can also alter the hydrogen sulfide levels. Unusual smells can also occur when a new water heater is installed.
To remedy an unusual smell, try flushing the water heater or change out the anode rod to one of a different material. Refer to the owner's manual for the water heater for proper instruction.

4. Who do I contact if there is a sewer back-up in my home or business?: If a sewer back-up occurs during regular business hours, contact the Public Works Department. Staff will check the main sewer line for you. If a sewer back-up occurs after hours, contact the Police Department's non-emergency line at (847) 639-2341.

5. Why is there an odor coming from my floor drain?: Usually, a sewer smell is caused by the water evaporating in your floor drain P-trap. Pour water into the basement floor drain to alleviate any unusual odor.

6. How can I prevent frozen pipes?: The most cost-effective was to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate and block air leaks near water pipes. If there are water lines that are not frequently used, drain these lines of water during the winter months. This may also prevent damage from occurring.

7. Who do I call to have my water turned off if I have a leak?: For planned water shut-offs, contact the Public Works Department at least 24 hours in advance.
For emergency water shut-offs that occur outside of regular business hours, contact SEECOM and they will dispatch a Public Works employee.

8. Why are the Village's fire hydrants flushed?: Hydrant flushing is necessary to test the hydrants for adequate water flow and water pressure. Hydrant flushing is also done to remove any sediments from water lines in order to maintain clarity and quality in the water distribution pipes.
On occasion, water is your residence can appear discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens, simply run your cold water tap for a few minutes until the discoloration fades. Avoid washing clothes until the water is completely clear.

9. Can the wastewater treatment plant safely remove anything we put down the drain?: No. Nothing should be flushed down the sanitary sewer other than toilet paper, regardless of what the packaging promises. Specifically, do NOT flush disposable mop refills, disinfecting wipes, personal or baby wipes, toilet cleaning pads, feminine hygiene products or moist towelettes.

10. Where does my sewer line end and where does the Village's begin?: The Village is responsible for the main sewer line that runs in your neighborhood. Residents are responsible for the private line that connects from the main sewer to the residence.

11. Can you tell me where my water/sewer line is located?: Call J.U.L.I.E at 811 or visit www.illinois1call.com for locating services.

12. What is the hardness of the Village's water?: Groundwater is the Village's source for water. Since groundwater in this area tends to be hard, due a high gravel content in the soil, the Village's range for water hardness is between 24 - 27 grains.