Derry Water Department

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1. Why did my water bill increase? Your water bill amount is primarily determined by your consumption during the billing cycle. An increase typically reflects higher usage. Review your water habits (outdoor watering, kitchen & bathroom use, laundry, etc.) to ensure efficient usage. For reference, an average family of four consumes about 400 gallons daily (see http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pubs/indoor.html). If you notice an unexplainable significant change, you might have a leak or system issue. Please contact the water billing office at 903-465-2720, Option #1 with any billing questions.
2. Did the City update my water meter? Yes, beginning April 2015, the City started a comprehensive replacement of all water meters. The new meters capture actual water usage more accurately, which may result in differences between pre and post-installation readings. The installation project was completed by late October 2015.
3. When did the City switch from billing in cubic feet to gallons? The transition to gallon-based billing occurred in December 2014. When comparing 2014 to 2015 usage, multiply your 2014 cubic feet by 7.481 to convert to gallons. Example: September 2014 usage of 3,800 cubic feet equals 28,428 gallons (3,800 x 7.481).
4. How does lawn irrigation affect my water usage? Providing one inch of water requires approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot. For example, watering even a modest 5,000 square-foot lawn with one inch three times weekly can consume over 37,000 gallons monthly just for outdoor watering. The City experienced an unusually wet spring and early summer with over 30 inches of rain from May through July, but less than ½ inch in August. Consequently, many residents didn't begin lawn watering until August, dramatically increasing water usage reflected in September bills. In typical years, outdoor watering usage gradually increases starting May/June and peaks in July/August.
5. Has the City recently increased water rates? Rates were adjusted effective December 1, 2014. Residential customers pay a minimum monthly fee of $20 for the first 1,000 gallons, plus $2.4254 per 1,000 gallons for consumption beyond that threshold.
6. Has the City tested the new water meters? Yes, the City has evaluated several newly installed meters and found no defects. Additionally, all meters undergo manufacturer testing before delivery to the City.
7. Could a leak in my water system cause increased usage? An unexplained spike in water consumption often indicates a leak. Leaks commonly occur in fixtures like toilets and faucets. Dripping faucets are easily spotted, and toilet tank leaks can be detected by placing food coloring in the tank and watching for color changes in the bowl. Leaks may also occur in your home's water supply line—watch for unusually wet areas in your yard. Contact the water office if you suspect a leak; they can help identify potential sources.
8. What steps can I take to reduce water consumption? There are numerous household water conservation strategies. A valuable resource for identifying conservation opportunities is available online at http://www.epa.gov/watersense.
9. Who can I contact about my water bill? For questions regarding your water bill, please contact the City at 903-465-2720, Option #1. You may also visit the utility billing office at 300 West Main Street.