Water bills can be confusing, but they don’t have to be if you understand the basics. Let’s break down key terminology, debunk common myths, and go over some tips to help you save on your water bill.
Why Understanding Your Water Bill Matters
Understanding your water bill can help you avoid overpaying, spot potential problems early on, and save money. Bills can feel stressful, but making sense of them can help you feel more in control.
Breaking Down Key Water Bill Terminology
Meter Readings
Your water meter measures how much water your household uses, usually in cubic metres (m³). One cubic metre of water is equivalent to 1,000 litres. Your water bill will show your previous meter reading, the current reading, and the difference between them, which is your water usage.
Usage Charge
If your property has a water meter, your bill will be based on how much water you use. This is called the usage charge. If you and your housemates aim to use less water, such as taking shorter showers and turning off the tap when brushing your teeth, you may be able to lower the cost of your water bill.
Standing Charge
Along with the usage charge, water bills also involve a standing charge. This is calculated daily and covers things like maintaining infrastructure and customer service. Using less water won’t affect your standing charge, which is always a fixed fee.
Billing Period
This is the timeframe used to calculate your water usage for each bill, often every six months. While the billing period may cover several months, many students choose to spread the cost by setting up monthly payments.
Busting Common Water Bill Myths
“Using Cold Water is Free”
Your water company won’t know whether you’ve used hot or cold water, just that you’ve used water. It’s all calculated the same, regardless of its temperature. However, using lots of hot water could increase your energy bill.
“Small Leaks Don’t Affect My Bill”
If your home has a water meter, you’re charged for every drop of water used. Water from leaks, such as a dripping tap or a toilet leak, will be included in your usage charge. Even slow leaks can waste a lot of water over time.
If you think you might have a leak at home, turn off all taps and appliances that use water, then note the meter reading. Don’t use any water for 30-60 minutes, and then check the water meter again. If the reading has changed, there may be a leak.
“Estimated Readings Are Always Accurate”
If your water bill is calculated using estimated readings, it’s less likely to be accurate, and you could be overcharged. You could also be undercharged, which can lead to your next bill being high. By submitting regular water meter readings, you can ensure your water bills are more accurate.
“Sewerage Charges Aren’t My Responsibility”
Students in England and Wales who are responsible for their water bill usually have to pay sewerage charges. These are normally included as part of your overall water bill. However, in Scotland, the system works differently. Most full-time students living in a property occupied only by students typically don’t pay sewerage charges.
Quick Tips To Save Money on Your Water Bill
Saving money on your water bill is something you have to do as a team. Talk to your housemates about what you can all do to make a difference so you’re on the same page. This could involve:
- Taking shorter showers
- Turning the taps off when brushing your teeth
- Running the washing machine and dishwasher when they’re full
- Fixing leaks as quickly as possible
- Washing dishes in a washing-up bowl rather than leaving the water running
How The Student Energy Group Can Help You Save On Your Bills
To help you and everyone you live with manage your bills more easily and save money, we’ll pop your household’s utilities into one monthly statement. As a trusted student bills company, we make it easier for students to stay on top of their household costs and avoid the stress of juggling multiple bills. This can then be split evenly between you and your housemates. It only takes a few clicks to build your perfect all-inclusive bill package. We’ll even make sure to plant a tree if you sign up with us! Get a free quote from us today to make budgeting easier.
