Why did my water bill go up?

Several factors can contribute to an increase:

  • If you have just purchased or live in a home with a grass lawn, check the run times of your irrigation zones. You may want to consider adjusting the length of time for each irrigation zone based on weather conditions, type of grass, and type of sprinkler head. Water use can significantly increase in the summer time due to hotter temperatures and increased evapotranspiration. An irrigation system can help conserve water if used efficiently. Check out this resource from Colorado State University Extension for more tips on watering established lawns: Watering Established Lawns (PDF)
  • Check for leaks! According to the US EPA WaterSense program, leaks from the average household can account for more than 10,000 gallons of water waste every year. Typical household leaks can come from faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems. Use this handy leak checklist from the US EPA WaterSense program to check for leaks in your household: Detect and Chase Down Leaks (PDF)
  • Late summer increases in usage are often the result of mower damage to irrigation systems. Mowers can crack sprinkler heads or completely break them, causing large amounts of wasted water if not fixed.
  • Evaporative Coolers, also known as swamp coolers, are another water hog because there is continuous water flow to cool the house. Be sure to properly maintain your cooler on an annual basis for efficiency.
  • During the winter months, water usage is generally consistent from month to month. Residential sewer usages are re-calculated in May based on the Winter Quarterly Average from December, January, and February. Your sewer fees are based on this average winter usage. This re-calculated sewer usage will remain at that volume until the following May. The initial re-calculated volume can potentially cause an increase in your bill.

Show All Answers

1. Can I pay over the telephone with a check?
2. Why did my water bill go up?
3. Why did my sewer rate go up?
4. How is the Storm Drainage Maintenance Fee calculated?
5. What is the charge if I am late on paying my bill?
6. I made a payment on line through my bank a week ago, why haven't you received it yet?
7. I already paid my bill, why does my statement show a past due balance?
8. I am a new customer, why do I have a $20.00 past due balance on my account?
9. Why would the Storm Drainage Charge apply to my property if there is not a storm sewer directly in front of my property?
10. What payment options are available for processing my utility bill?
11. Do I have to receive a paper bill?
12. Is there a way to make the amount of my water bill consistent every month?