What is a sewer bill?
Your water bill is split into two parts, the first of which is assumed to be primarily for activities such as bathing and washing dishes. As these activities make up the majority of water usage for most Americans, it is presumed that 90% percent of your water enters the sewage system. This 90% is generally what is accounted for in the sewage charge on your water bill. Sewage billings is what pays for the expenses of your local wastewater treatment plant, so that the water you use can be repurified for further utility. The average sewer bill can amount to $40-$50 of your total water bill.
The other 10% of your overall water bill is charged at a lower rate, because water used for activities such as washing cars or watering plants does not reenter the sewage system. Because it doesn't enter sewage to eventually be processed, this water is charged at a lower rate. These numbers and rates for them typically vary between city and territory. Some cities may charge a minimum billing amount if you use little to no water in a month. Consult your city's billing department or water company for more information on how you are billed for water and sewage.
Why is my sewage bill so high? What can I do to bring my costs down?
It's no secret that all costs of living have increased over the past few years. Your water and sewage bill are no stranger to this phenomenon. That being the case, the main way to lower your water bill is to decrease usage. If you already feel like you've heard it all and tried all the strategies to reduce your water bill, check out our secret strategy at the end of this article!
Find leaks inside your home.
One of the first things you should ensure is that no water is wasted in your home. This includes checking all fixtures in your sinks, toilets, hoses and washing machines for leaks. Remember that even an intermittent drip can add significantly to your metered water usage since it doesn't ever truly stop until it is tended to.
If you suspect a slow or intermittent leak is happening in your house, you can confirm it by checking your water meter before going to sleep or leaving your home for an extended period of time. If your usage seems to have continued in any way despite your absence, there must be a leak.
Invest in newer equipment.
Also consider replacing dishwashers or washing machines that are more than ten years old for newer models. Older models can have more plastic and rubber parts that are breaking down, making it less worthwhile to repair and replace. With older and discontinued models you may end up spending more in parts and labor over time than you would if you were to buy or finance a new machine.
Adjust your habits to save more.
Other saving can happen though your habits. For example, a shorter daily shower can go a long way, considering that the average shower can take up around 17 gallons of water. If you're a frequent bather, you should be aware that you could be using 35-70 gallons per bath. That can be more than 3 times the average shower!
You should also consider ways to save on water outside of your home. Take into consideration what's used on watering your yard, cleaning your car, and other outdoor activities. If you live in a moist area where it rains more often than not, you may not have to water your lawn or plants as much as you think. You could even go as far as to concoct a rainwater collection system to take care of all these outdoor tasks that don't require the cleanest of water.
Keep even MORE track.
Always check with your city AND local utility company first, but another option might be utilize a dual meter system for measuring your water usage. This would involve installing an additional meter to gauge exactly how much water is used inside, and is to be charged with sewage rates, and outside for water that doesn't go down the drain. This can help to clear discrepancies and doubts about how much water is used where and how it should be charged.
Depending on what programs are available through your local government, you may also qualify for utility assistance programs to help those with low-incomes or who meet other qualifications to receive help from government funded programs.