Most people do not realize how much water is actually used by sprinkler systems, garden hoses, pool filling and in the house, leaking toilets.   We encourage everyone to take readings on their meter often to make sure they know how much water is being used, especially during the summer months when usage is at its highest. Many people are truly amazed when they take a meter reading before and after the sprinkler system has run through a cycle and they see how many gallons of water are used.  You are billed only twice per year, so it is important to check your meter often to ensure that there are no leaks in between billings.

We would also like to remind you that as of July 2007 the rates have also increased, so even if you used the same amount of water as last time or even a little less, the bill may still be higher. When you do receive your bill you will see the previous and current meter readings listed. You can check those readings against the meter in your basement to ensure that the reading is correct and to see how much you have used since the last reading.  Please be aware that the readings are in cubic feet.  One cubic foot of water is equal to 7.48 gallons.

All of the newer style meters come with either a black or red triangle or circle that is used to tell if you have a leak somewhere in your system.  When you know that you have everything turned off and you see the dial moving, that indicates that water is being used. However in the case of leaking toilets you may not always be there to see it, as they can cycle off and on with the internal float.

Any leak or drip should be fixed immediately. 99% of our calls for high water bills, turn out to be internal toilet leaks or outside use. If you suspect you have a leaky toilet, add a couple of drops of food coloring to the tank and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then check the bowl to see if the water has changed color. If it has you know you have a leak. You should perform this test periodically to ensure the toilet seat valve is closing properly. It is possible that your toilet is leaking sometimes  but not all the time.  As the flapper valve wears, it begins to leak by if it does not properly seat. If you have one of the new brass Neptune or Sensus meters, you can easily check for a leak yourself using dial on the meter head. This is a low flow indicator. Check to make sure that no water that you know of is running, then watch the dial. If it is moving then you know that there is a leak.  Shut off your toilets supply lines one at a time to determine which one is leaking. You can also take a reading before you go to bed and then check it immediately when you wake to see if it has changed.

                                                  Water-Sewer Billing Dispute Policy

·         Customer is responsible for maintaining all plumbing, accessories and appurtenances connected to their service line to assure that no leaks or excessive use occurs.

·         If you believe that your water-sewer usage and bill is not correct, please read the information above on how to check your readings and how to check for leaks. Please check your meter reading against the current reading on your bill.  If the numbers do not make sense sequentially, we will schedule a time to re-read your meter. You can find additional information on our web site listed above.

·         If after you have checked everything and you still feel that there is a problem, it is your option to have your meter tested to ensure that it is within operating standards.  If the test indicates that there is a problem with your meter, we will replace it and your bill will be adjusted accordingly. If the test indicates the meter is reading correctly there will be a $50 charge for the test and your meter will be re-installed. To date we have not had a meter tested that has not been within proper standards.