Sewer charges & tiered rates — why your bill jumps
Sewer is often the biggest part of the bill. Tiered rates mean the last gallons cost 2–3x the first.
Direct answer
Many utilities charge sewer based on your winter average water use (even in summer). Tiered rates charge more per gallon after you cross thresholds (e.g., first 4 CCF cheap, next expensive). A 2x usage month can cost 3–4x because of tiers + sewer.
Typical structure
| Charge type | What it covers | How calculated |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed / base | Meter service, infrastructure | Flat per billing period |
| Water usage | Delivered gallons | Tiered (e.g. 0-4 CCF low, 5-20 medium, 21+ high) |
| Sewer / wastewater | Treatment of indoor water | Often % of water or winter average (no credit for outdoor use) |
Worked example (Raleigh NC style)
4 CCF water @ low tier + sewer on winter avg. Next month 12 CCF: the extra 8 CCF hit higher tiers + full sewer. Bill can triple even if outdoor use explains some.
Primary sources
- Raleigh, LADWP, Seattle, San Diego utility rate pages (check your bill for exact tiers)
- Local utility customer service for your winter sewer averaging period.