DEEP GROUND FROST CONTRIBUTES TO HIGH NUMBER OF WATER MAIN BREAKS

Saskatoon is experiencing a higher than normal amount of water main breaks across the city.  For the past two weeks, one to four breaks have been reported daily, which is almost twice the normal rate.  This past weekend, from Saturday morning to Sunday morning, seven breaks occurred, which is extremely unusual.  Experienced City and contractor crews are maintaining the commitment to have repairs complete and the water back on within 48 hours, working 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. seven days a week, with overtime as staff is available. 

While a leak or break in the underground water pipes (water main) can occur at any time of year, the extended cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing causes the soil to freeze quite deep in the ground.  In an average winter, the ground frost ranges from 1.5 to 2.4 metres (5 to 8 feet) deep.  Most of the water system pipes are located 2.7 to 3 metres (9 to 10 feet) deep and currently, the average ground frost is 2.9 metres (9.5 feet) deep.  This freezing can cause expansion and contraction that creates force on the water main.  Other factors that contribute to breaks are the age and type of pipe (cast iron pipes installed prior to 1970 can be more susceptible); soil conditions that cause corrosion; and pressure on the system, such as very hot, dry days with high water use. 

“The City would like to thank residents and businesses for their patience and understanding, says Acting Director of Public Works Trent Schmidt.  “The inconvenience of a water service interruption alone can be frustrating, but with the extremely cold temperature, it can feel unbearable.  We want you to know that we have extra staff and contractors working as quickly as possible to get the water back on.” 

If you see water in the street or on your lawn, please phone the Public Works customer service call centre 24 hours/day, 7 days/week at 306-975-2476.  A water & sewer trouble crew will be dispatched to inspect the location within 30-60 minutes.  There are four water trailers available to provide a temporary water supply for residents and businesses without water service.  We make every effort to make a water trailer available within eight hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, this may extend to 12 hours.  

Repair Process

Immediately following the report of a water main break, a water & sewer trouble crew is dispatched to determine the location, impact and severity of the break. First the water main is "controlled", by closing nearby valves, which shuts off the water service.  Once the general repair location has been identified and the water main is shut off, special equipment is used to find the precise location of the break.  

A separate water & sewer maintenance crew makes the repairs, which can begin up to 24 hours after the water is turned off.  A typical water main repair can take 10-12 hours, but may be extended up to 32 hours if complications occur.  Prior to any excavation, the underground utilities are located to ensure the repair can be done safely without causing further damage.  When frozen, it can take longer to break through the ground and expose the damaged pipes.  Once the repair is complete, the pipes are flushed and water is tested to ensure water quality before water service is restored.   

The excavation will be filled in with gravel until the spring when the temperature is warm enough to apply asphalt and repair the road.  Any damage to the sidewalk, driveways and private property from the repair excavation will be repaired during the summer, in consultation with the property owner.

Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory

When the water is turned off, affected addresses are given a yellow doorhanger with information about what they can expect and a recommendation to boil water for consumption once the water is back on for up to 72 hours until laboratory tests confirm the water is safe.  A green doorhanger will be delivered to notify residents they Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory is lifted.  For more information, visit saskatoon.ca and click on P for Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory. 

For more information, visit Saskatoon.ca and click on W for Water Main Break or call Public Works customer service call centre at 306-975-2476.  Know Before you Go! Subscribe to Traffic Detour service alerts for notifications of detours caused by water main repairs or other roadway work. 

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.