Is your monthly sewer bill higher than usual? Here’s why it happens and what you can do about it.
In Phoenix, the city bases sewer charges on your household’s average water use during the winter months (January through March). The higher your water use during this time, the higher your bill will be for the next year entirely.
At Patriotic Plumbing & Rooting, we’ve helped countless Phoenix homeowners analyze and manage these charges with expert plumbing services.
Let’s start by helping you understand how the sewer bill is calculated in Phoenix.
How is the Sewer Bill Calculated in Phoenix?
The City of Phoenix bases your sewer bill on your water usage during the winter months—January, February, and March. This period is used because outdoor water use is typically lower during this period.
So if you use a lot more water during these months, for example, you filled a pool or had an undetected leak, you will have to pay a higher sewer bill for the next 12 months. Sewer fees are charged monthly (plus a minimum monthly charge) and are added to your utility bill.
This makes managing water use in the winter the single biggest factor in keeping your sewer bill low.
Not sure how to reduce your sewer bill effectively? Here are four easy ways to do so:
Tip 1. Conserve and Monitor Water Usage
The easiest way to reduce your sewer bill in Phoenix is—you guessed it—to use less water.
So from January through March, keep a close eye on your meter. The average household (3-4 members) in Phoenix uses about 4,000–7,000 gallons per month. Keep showers short, shut the tap off while brushing, and only run your dishwasher or washing machine when it’s full.
Tip 2. Check and Repair Leaks
Nothing runs up a sewer bill faster than a hidden leak. A toilet that keeps running and a drip here and there add up faster than most people realize.
But how do you find out if you have a leak? Shut off everything in the house and see if your water meter still moves. If it does, you’ve got a leak.
Small leaks are often manageable by replacing a worn-out faucet washer or wrapping pipe threads with plumber’s tape. However, if it’s a serious leak (slab leak, burst pipe, underground irrigation leaks, etc.) and it persists after DIY sealing, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
We offer expert plumbing repair services and detection to find any possible issues that you wouldn’t normally see and fix leaking toilets, sinks, and more. No hidden fees!
Tip 3. Install Low-Flow Fixtures and Energy-Saving Appliances
Today, the market is filled with a variety of low-flow fixtures that are built to function with a fraction of the water older models typically use. Although the upfront cost is a bit higher, the long-term savings make these upgrades one of the smartest investments you can make.
Pair them with energy-efficient appliances and a modern HVAC installation, and you’ll save money on both your water and power bills.
At Patriotic Plumbing & Rooter, we help you pick out the best fixtures for your home and guarantee professional installation. Explore our full list of plumbing services today.
Tip 4. Get Regular Maintenance For Your Drain and Sewer System
A lot of people wait until something breaks before calling a plumber, but that’s the expensive way to do it.
Instead, get regular yearly inspections. Regular maintenance of your drains, pipes, and sewer lines helps with clogging and leak detection before they get out of hand. This is especially important for older homes around Phoenix, where aging pipes are more likely to waste water without you knowing. Even a simple inspection once a year can make a huge difference!
Can You Request a Lower Water Bill in Arizona?
Yes. Phoenix residents can request a sewer fee review if their winter water use was unusually high due to a leak or other one-time event. The sewer appeal process opens annually, and you can only apply for adjustments for that year.
The city also offers a one-time credit if properly notified.
Homeowners can apply for a review by visiting myPHX311. All you have to do is navigate to “Submit Documents—City Services Bill,” and then “Sewer Fee Review.” If approved, your sewer fee will be adjusted.
Note: Submit files in a non-editable format, like a PDF. Screenshots and photos will not be accepted.
Smart Plumbing Starts with Patriotic Plumbing & Rooter
Knowing what’s behind the jump in your sewer bill is just the first step. Now it’s about making smart fixes to bring those costs down.
Reducing your sewer bill is a great way to save money and conserve water. For leaking pipe repair, fixture upgrades, or to schedule a professional plumbing inspection, contact our Phoenix plumbers today!
