Reading your Utility Bill
What is typical consumption for a family of four?
36 cubic metres.
If you are using more than this amount, follow the link to find some suggestions on how to lower your water consumption
How much is a utility bill for a family of four?
The total cost for water and sewer depends on consumption. In addition to the consumption charges there are also fixed monthly charges. There are garbage collection, environmental fees, water and sewer fixed charges on your utility bill. Follow the link to learn more about the current utility rates.
Water fixed charge: is based on the size of the meter in your home or business. An average household has a 5/8 meter installed.
Sewer fixed charge: is based on the size of the meter in your home or business. An average household has a 5/8 meter installed.
How is my bill calculated?
Your water meter measures the water used in cubic meters. One cubic metre equals 220 Imperial gallons. The amount of water your residence or business consumes is multiplied by the current water and sewer rates.
What about the rate structure?
The water and sewer consumption rates are based on each operating system. The cost of sewer treatment is greater than for water treatment. Sewer effluent must be treated to the level where it can be discharged back into the Bow River without any negative impacts upon either the environment or other water users.
Both water and sewer rates are based upon the charges received from the City of Calgary for the supply of water and sewer to the City of Airdrie.
Was there a change in the way water and sewer rates are calculated?
Water rates had previously subsidized the actual cost of the sewer system. In 2007 a new rate structure was introduced to reflect the actual cost of the water and sewer systems.
As part of the new rate structure, fixed charges and consumption charges were structured to more accurately reflect the actual costs of operating each system.
What is the meter size charge?
The fixed cost of water and sewer is based upon the meter size and the demand that the size of meter can place upon the water or sewer system. Larger meters place a higher demand upon and the system and are charged a higher fixed rate.
Am I still charged if I don’t use any water?
There is a minimum cost charged to be able to supply water services to your property even if no water is actually used. This is the fixed charge for the water and sewer system.
If you are going to be absent from your residence for an extended period of time, the service can be inactivated and then reactivated upon your return. There is a cost associated with this service. Contact City of Airdrie Utility Customer Service Representatives at 948-8859 for more information.
What are the environmental service fees?
The environmental service fees fund programs that help to benefit our environment. This include the recycling depot, transfer station and public education programs.
What is the garbage collection fee?
The garbage collection fee enables weekly curbside collection of your waste. Click for information on garbage collection requirements.