Chesapeake In The Know

Customers often contact us this time of year wondering why their water bills are higher than usual. Most of the time it’s a simple answer – you’ve used more water!  Consider your water consumption during the warmer months. As a City, our average day’s water consumption is 15.5 million gallons. On a hot summer day, that number goes up to over 20 million gallons - a 23% increase in just one day’s use. Remember that your water bill is on a 2 month cycle so your bill is for water used as much as 2 months ago.

Water bills in 2020 were more than normal for many households simply because many   people were home more. If COVID-19 has brought your office or your child’s classroom into the house, remember that you’re now using your own water instead of work or school water. That extra usage adds up.

If you ever notice a significant increase in your water bill, though, your first step is to check for leaks. Toilets are often the leak culprit. (Has your toilet ever sounded like it’s filling for just a couple seconds then stops? That’s a leak!) It could also be something completely unseen under your house.

If you ever have questions or concerns about your City utility service, call the Public Utilities customer service line during normal operating hours at 382-6352.