Sewer Changes Calculated During Winter Months

The City of Colleyville averages individual household water consumption during December, January, and February to set residential sewer rates for the year. For households that have no preceding winter months usage, Colleyville uses an average of 9,000 gallons as set by city ordinance. During the winter months, residents should be aware of all unnecessary water usage, dripping faucets, leaking toilets, etc. to minimize their monthly sewer bill during these months. Wastewater averaging provides a measure that is generally reflective of the amount of water that goes directly into the sanitary sewer system for each property. This is considered the most equitable way to determine the sewer volume.

December, January, and February are used to calculate the sewer average, as that time period provides a true picture of interior water use when water consumption is not impacted by outdoor water used such as filling swimming pools and lawn sprinkler systems. Water averaging allows customers the opportunity to lower their monthly sewer bill by reducing water use during winter months and keeps the sewer charges consistent each month.

The calculation process is repeated every year in the same manner. While many households may not see a big change from year to year, some homes may actually see a drop or rise in the wastewater charge because of calculations from the three month period.