Managing business expenses can be tough, and water bills are often one of those confusing costs. But don’t worry—understanding your business water bill doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we’ll break down the key parts of your water bill, explain how charges are calculated, and show you how to spot opportunities for savings.
What’s on Your Water Bill?
Your water bill typically consists of two main components:
- Water Supply Charges
This covers the cost of the water your business uses, from cleaning to cooking and everything in between. It’s usually based on the amount of water your business consumes, measured in cubic meters (m³). - Wastewater Charges
This includes the cost of treating the water that leaves your business through sinks, toilets, and drains. Think of it as paying for the cleaning of used water before it’s returned to the environment.
You may also see additional charges like:
- Standing Charges: Fixed fees for maintaining the water supply infrastructure.
- Surface Water Drainage: Fees for removing and treating rainwater from your property.
How Are Water Charges Calculated?
Your charges depend on whether your property has a metered or unmetered water supply:
- Metered Supply: Your bill is based on actual water usage. The more you use, the more you pay.
- Unmetered Supply: Charges are calculated using a rateable value assigned to your property, which doesn’t reflect your actual usage.
Why Is My Water Bill So High?
If your water bill seems unusually high, there could be a few reasons:
- Hidden Leaks: Even a small leak can waste thousands of liters of water and significantly increase costs.
- Inefficient Equipment: Old appliances and fixtures might use more water than necessary.
- Higher Usage: Seasonal changes or business growth can increase your water consumption.
Tips to Save on Your Business Water Bill
- Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect pipes, taps, and toilets for leaks. Fixing them can save water and money.
- Upgrade Fixtures: Invest in water-efficient equipment, like low-flow taps and dual-flush toilets.
- Monitor Usage: Use smart water meters to track and analyze your consumption in real-time.
- Switch Water Suppliers: If you’re in an area with a deregulated water market, compare suppliers to find better rates and services.
- Educate Your Team: Encourage employees to adopt water-saving habits, like turning off taps when not in use.
How Wattsaver Can Help
At Wattsaver, we specialize in helping businesses like yours understand and reduce utility costs. Our water efficiency experts can:
- Audit your water usage to identify waste.
- Recommend and install water-saving solutions.
- Help you compare suppliers and switch for better deals.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your business water bill is the first step toward taking control of your water costs. By knowing what you’re paying for and implementing a few smart strategies, you can save money while reducing your environmental impact.
Need help with your water bill or want to explore ways to save? Contact Wattsaver today, and let’s make your water usage more efficient and cost-effective!