The key to controlling your sewer costs all year long.
by John Geiger
Woodlands Water rates are amongst the lowest in the region. But that still doesn’t mean we enjoy paying the bill. Fortunately, there’s a simple way to lower your monthly bill now AND throughout the following year. It’s called “Winter Sewer Averaging.”
To understand how it works, first consider that sewer is charged separately from water on your bill. However, the amount you pay for sewer is based on your water consumption. Use less water and you’ll pay less for both.
Here’s where Winter Sewer Averaging comes in. Average monthly water consumption in December, January & February determines your maximum monthly sewer charge for the next 12 months. Winter months are used because that’s when water is largely consumed indoors. This water returns to the sewer system for treatment, whereas outdoor use does not.
Winter sewer averaging offers a real advantage for homeowners. By calculating sewer bills based on winter water use, households are shielded from spikes in bills during warmer months, when outdoor watering increases.
Consider that the average Woodlands household uses 6,000 gallons of water a month in the winter and 14,000 gallons a month in the summer. If you’re the average Joe, Winter Sewer Averaging caps your monthly sewer charge at 6,000 gallons, even in July. Are you better than the average Joe? Then your cap will be even lower.
Tips for lowering your Sewer Average:
- Track your water use with WaterSmart. This free online tool that tracks your household’s water use by the hour. It also detects leaks and sends automatic leak alerts to your phone or email.
- Turn off the sprinklers November through March. Rain supplies all the water our lawns need this time of year. In fact, irrigating during cooler months, when grass is dormant, invites disease and pests come spring.
- Be water wise. Check out these simple tips for saving water indoors and out.
