An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Annual water disinfectant, hydrant cleaning

  • Published
  • By 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

Beginning on Monday, 9 August 2021, Illinois American Water will be temporarily changing the type of disinfectant used to treat your drinking water. This is a routine annual practice that typically lasts for approximately four to five weeks. The safety of the water supplied to the base will not be affected by this temporary disinfectant change or system flushing. Water will continue to comply with all EPA standards and there is no need to boil the water. If an objectionable difference in taste or odor is noticed, allow water drawn from the tap to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours. Dialysis patients and renal care facilities should be aware of these changes and adjust their health care practices accordingly. 


On 23 August, and through the month of September, Scott AFB American Water will conduct our annual distribution system flushing program throughout the base, EXCLUDING Shiloh, Patriots and Lincolns Landing Housing Areas owned and operated by others. Because of the higher velocity of water flowing through the water main pipes during flushing, water can become discolored. Letting the water run from the tap for at least two minutes will help reduce cloudy water. To help avoid clothes staining, the best time for doing laundry will be from 7 pm to 7 am, during non-flushing hours. Running an empty short wash or rinse cycle will help clear up the water prior to adding clothes. Toilet flush mechanisms can become clogged by small particles in the water which can cause somewhat erratic flushing operation that will normally stabilize with continued use. Please call CE Customer Service if you experience persistent problems with any plumbing fixtures. Additionally, there may be a noticeable temporary decrease in water pressure in an area of active flushing. 


Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding during these important maintenance activities. For additional information, please contact Scott AFB American Water at (618) 580-6422.