We're still building our FAQ. If you have a question you don't see answered here, please call 974-2199 or email us.

Questions by Program

• Toilets
• Clothes Washers
• Rainbarrels
• Landscape & Irrigation
• Watering Restrictions
• Water Waste

Most Popular Questions

1. Do you offer rebates on air conditioners / home weatherization?
   Those rebate programs are handled through Austin Energy.
2. Where do I get a rainbarrel, and how much does it cost?
   Details on our rainbarrel programs can be found here. Prices are $60 for customers in our service area, and all rainbarrel sales require pre-payment. Once your application has been approved, you will be notified of the next pickup date.
3. How much water should I be using?
   Water use varies widely across Austin, and depends on the number of people in the household, the amount of time spent in the home, the type of landscape and maintenance practices, and the age and condition of water-using fixtures in the home. As a rough guideline, we expect to see no more than 6,000 to 8,000 gallons a month for a family of four for indoor water use. It is difficult to offer a ballpark estimate for irrigation systems, since so much depends on the system set-up and landscape factors. We offer free irrigation system evaluations to customers using over 25,000 gallons per month, a figure which often signifies excessive water use. For more facts and figures, click here.
4. Why is my water bill so high?
   To answer that question, you'll need to take a closer look at the breakdown of your bill. Most customers in our service area are billed for both water and electricity, so check to make sure it's the water portion that's increasing your bill. Then, see how much you're paying for water, and how much for wastewater service. Often, the wastewater portion is higher. Wastewater rates are higher (treating wastewater is more expensive than delivering it), and are based on your winter water use from the previous year. (More information on wastewater averaging can be found here.) Also, you pay more for water the more you use... another good reason to conserve!
5. I had a leak (or filled my swimming pool), can I get a credit on my bill?
   In some situations, the utility is able offer customers credits for water that is not put back into the wastewater system, and therefore not treated. To see if you are eligible for an adjustment, please send an email to AWURCS@ci.austin.tx.us.
6. My mother needs a taller handicapped toilet. Does the City install those for free?
   The Water Conservation program does not install toilets, and only offers free toilets to replace inefficient toilets installed before 1996 (regardless of a customer's age, disability or financial situation). However, the City of Austin does offer a program to help disabled and senior citizens install ramps, shower bars and handicapped toilets and remove other physical barriers. Strict financial and age guidelines apply, and assistance is based on funding availability. More information is available online or by calling 974-3863 (You may need to leave a message, since the small staff is often in the field.)