The Webster City Street Department is responsible for repairing and replacing any water main pipe in the event of a water main break. A water main can break for multiple reasons however the two most common ways include: freezing and thawing soils create movement in the ground that can bend or shift water mains and Electrolysis. Other contributing factors that play into the deterioration include pipe age, pipe material, and accidents. Webster City distribution system is made up of ductal iron pipe, cast iron pipe, and plastic. Since 2010 Webster City has roughly 20 water main breaks a year which mainly occur during the winter months.
When a water main break occurs Street Department staff prioritizes work by considering the following factors:
• Public Safety
• Traffic Impact
• Water Service disruption
• Water Loss
• Location of break
• Utilities near the affected area
• Weather conditions
In order to repair a water main break staff must temporarily shut off water in the affected areas because the flow of pressurized water is too strong for repairs to be made. In the affected area door hangers will be handed out to all impacted customers informing them of the water outage and advising them how long work is expected to last. Once the water main break is repaired, streets and ROW will be temporarily restored depending on the time of year. Customers may also experience discoloration in their drinking water due to stirring up the sediments in the distribution system. This problem can be solved by running a faucet or outside spicket 10-15 minutes until the water runs clear.
In the event a boil order advisory is warranted, customers will receive a door hanger notifying them of a water supply problem and protocols to be taken to keep them safe.

