Actionable Steps to Lower Your Sewer Bill

Sewer bills often present a substantial household expense. Their calculation can seem opaque, leading to frustration when statements arrive higher than anticipated. Understanding how these bills are calculated and implementing specific actions can lead to noticeable financial savings. Taking proactive steps helps manage this often-overlooked utility cost.

Understanding How Your Sewer Bill is Calculated

Sewer bill calculation methods vary by local utility provider. Many municipalities base residential sewer charges directly on water meter readings, assuming nearly all indoor water consumption eventually flows into the sewer system for treatment.

Another common method is the “winter average,” which measures average water consumption during colder months (e.g., November to April) when outdoor watering is minimal. This excludes outdoor water use that does not enter the sewer. This average then becomes the basis for sewer charges for the remainder of the year, capping costs even during high outdoor water use.

Some areas use a flat rate, a fixed fee charged regardless of consumption, offering less opportunity for savings. Tiered pricing structures also exist, where the cost per unit increases as consumption rises. Understanding your utility’s calculation method is the initial step to lower your sewer bill.

Strategies for Reducing Indoor Water Use

Reducing indoor water use directly decreases sewer charges, especially when bills are tied to water consumption. Toilets are a primary source of indoor water use. Older models consume 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush; replacing them with high-efficiency models (1.28 gallons or less) significantly reduces consumption. Checking for silent toilet leaks, which can waste hundreds of gallons daily, also prevents unnecessary water flow.

Showers and baths also contribute to sewer volume. Limiting shower duration and installing low-flow showerheads are effective measures. Standard showerheads use 2.5 GPM; low-flow versions use 2.0 GPM or less, some as efficiently as 1.5 GPM, without compromising pressure. Opting for a quick shower instead of a bathtub also conserves water.

Laundry appliances offer water savings. Running washing machines only when full maximizes efficiency. High-efficiency (HE) washing machines use less water; front-loaders use 7-10 gallons per load, compared to 19-40 gallons for older machines. Selecting appropriate load sizes and using cold water cycles further reduces consumption.

Dishwashing habits influence water usage and sewer costs. Modern dishwashers are efficient, using 3-5 gallons per cycle, less than the 27+ gallons used when handwashing a full sink. Ensuring the dishwasher is full and scraping plates clean rather than pre-rinsing contributes to water conservation. Turning off faucets while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing hands, and installing aerators on sink faucets, are simple practices that minimize water waste.

Detecting and Repairing Water Leaks

Hidden water leaks can silently inflate sewer bills, making leak detection a significant step in managing costs. Check for leaks by observing your water meter. Ensure no water is used inside or outside the house, then locate your water meter, often found near the curb in a concrete box. Many meters have a small leak indicator, such as a triangle or asterisk, that spins when water is flowing; if it moves with all water sources off, a leak is present. Alternatively, record the meter reading, avoid all water use for one to two hours, then take another reading; any change indicates a leak.

To detect a silent toilet leak, perform a dye test. Add food coloring or a dye tablet to the toilet tank. Without flushing, wait 15-30 minutes. If colored water appears in the bowl, water is leaking from the tank, often due to a worn flapper valve.

Checking faucets for drips, looking for visible moisture around pipes, and listening for unusual sounds like constant running water can help identify other leaks. If leaks are difficult to locate or repair, contact a qualified plumber to prevent further water waste and potential property damage.

Reviewing Your Sewer Bill for Accuracy

Examining your sewer bill for accuracy provides another layer of control over your household expenses. Review each line item on the statement to understand all charges applied. This scrutiny helps identify any charges that seem incorrect or unexpected.

Comparing your current month’s usage with previous bills, or with the same period in prior years, can reveal unusual spikes in consumption. A sudden, unexplained increase might indicate a hidden leak or a billing error. If you identify discrepancies or have questions about high usage, promptly contact your local sewer or water utility’s customer service department. They can provide detailed explanations, investigate potential issues, or arrange for a meter check. Consider any recent changes in your household, such as additional occupants or new appliances, which might legitimately explain an increase in water usage.