The water treatment process has been successfully implemented to protect and safeguard people from contamination. The treatment process involves drawing water from the Lake into an aeration tank to eliminate iron. The water then travels to a tank where polyaluminum chloride and soda ash are mixed into the water. These chemicals allow sediments to bind to the chemicals and ash, which fall to a basin due to their heavy weight and ultimately get removed from the mix. A small amount of chlorine is also blended into the water for disinfection and to remove bacteria – the imperceptible volume of chlorine has no effect on human consumption. The last step is adding soda ash, fluoride and corrosion inhibitors to the water before it is pumped into sanitized reservoirs, water towers and residential homes and businesses.

Wood Dale’s Water Department administers tests and assesses water samples throughout the year for bacteria. There have been no samples testing positive for bacteria. Wood Dale also complies and meets all requirements enforced within the Safe Drinking Water Act, and satisfies all regulations administered by the EPA.

To further ensure safety, the city of Wood Dale’s Water Department has three backup wells that can be used in emergency situations. These back-up wells are tested monthly and yearly for contaminants. It is also mandated that the wells and suction lines maintain a minimum required distance from sources of pollution, further enhancing the quality of water provided to residents. Interested residents are able to request Well test results at any time.

1 Contaminants below legal limits, but above health guidelines.

18 Contaminants found within health guidelines and legal limits.