Water, Water Everywhere, But Do You Pay in Chicago?
So, you're thinking about moving to the Windy City, huh? Good choice! Deep-dish pizza, world-class museums, and a certain kind of charm that only Chicago can offer. But let's talk about something a little less glamorous: water bills.
Do You Pay For Water In Chicago |
The Great Chicago Water Mystery
You might be wondering, "Do I actually have to pay for water in Chicago?" Well, the short answer is: it depends.
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Metered vs. Non-Metered: It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with less excitement. If your apartment or house has a water meter, you're in the clear. You pay for exactly what you use, just like any normal human being. But if you're one of the unlucky ones without a meter, you're in for a surprise. You pay a flat rate based on the size of your property, regardless of how much water you actually use. It's like paying for a whole pizza when you only want one slice.
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Water Woes and Windfalls
Now, if you're a frugal soul, you might be tempted to take super short showers, brush your teeth with the faucet off, and generally live like a desert dweller. But hold your horses! While conserving water is always a good thing, it won't necessarily save you money if you don't have a meter.
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On the other hand, if you do have a meter, you can go wild with water balloons, DIY car washes, and filling up your kiddie pool without breaking the bank. Just remember to factor in those extra sewer charges.
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How to Navigate Chicago's Water World
So, you're ready to dive into the world of Chicago water bills? Here are a few quick tips to help you stay afloat:
- How to check if you have a water meter: Look for a small, round object near your water shutoff valve. If you find one, congrats, you're in the metered world!
- How to read your water bill: If you have a meter, your bill will show your water usage in gallons or cubic feet. If you don't, it will show a flat rate based on your property size.
- How to conserve water: Even if you don't save money, conserving water is good for the environment. Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and water your plants wisely.
- How to dispute your water bill: If you think your bill is wrong, contact the Chicago Department of Water Management. They can help you sort things out.
- How to install a water meter: If you're tired of paying a flat rate, you can request a water meter installation. There might be a fee involved, so do your research first.
Remember, water is essential for life, but it doesn't have to be a mystery. With a little knowledge, you can navigate Chicago's water world like a pro.
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