To serve you better, we've assembled a list of our customers' most frequently asked questions and factors that could impact your bill. If you don't find your answer here, feel free to contact us.
Why is my Bill so High?
Please see the below factors to rule out some options.
Factor #1: Was this an actual reading following one or more estimated meter readings?
SRMA only estimates readings when the meter does not communicate with our radios. The estimated readings are based on the customer’s historical usage. However, if the usage has changed, these bills could be over or underestimated. When the meter reading is estimated, any variation between estimated and actual usage will be adjusted with the next actual meter reading which may cause the new bill to be higher or lower than expected.
Factor #2: Were there additional people in the household or any lifestyle changes?
If there are more people than normal in the household, their activity can contribute to a higher-than-normal bill. The more people in the house often means more loads of laundry or dishes and showers. For example: holidays, graduation parties, or gatherings.
If there were changes in lifestyle, such as working from home or seasonal cleaning (power washing), the result could be a higher-than-usual bill amount.
Factor #3: Was there a balance transferred from a previous tenant?
If you are a renter, there may be an unpaid balance from the previous tenant. Please contact your landlord about this matter.
Factor #4: Any knowledge of a leak?
Any equipment that uses water has potential to leak. If there is a suspicion of a leak, please contact a plumber and resolve the problem as soon as possible. Most likely, it could be a leaky toilet that can be difficult to detect. One way to check a toilet for a leak is to place a couple drops of food coloring in the toilet’s tank. Wait for about 10 minutes and check to see if there is dye in the bowl. If there is-the toilet is leaking.
Check for Toilet Leaks |
If it is not the toliet, take a meter read. The simply lift up the white plastic cover of the meter to expose the numbers. Write down all the digits and avoid using the water. This test works the best at night or when the home is unoccupied for several hours. Once serveral hours have passed, take another meter reading. If the numbers are the same-there is no leak. If the numbers are different- there is an internal issue and a plumber should be contacted immediately.
Leak Thru Following Diameter at 60psi | Gallons Used per 30 days |
1/4" | 339,833 gals |
1/8" | 98,667 gals |
1/16" | 24,667 gals |
1/32" | 6,167 gals |
Factor #5: Was a previous payment applied to the bill?
If the bill looks higher than usual and you know you sent a payment, SRMA probably received the payment after the bill has been posted. Please call our office and we will help resolve the problem.
What are some common leaks?
Any appliance that uses water can leak. If found leaking, please make the repairs or contact a plumber. Unrepaired leaks can be costly. Please reference Section 9.11 page 22 in our Rules and Regulations.
Examples:
- Toliet
- Faucet
- Outdoor Hose
- Automatic Pool Filler
- Dishwasher
- Washing Machine
- Hot Water Tank
Leak | Gallons Used per 30 days |
Dripping Faucet | 10,800 gallons |
Leaking Toilet | 21,600 gallons |
What do I do if I am experiencing low pressure?
Check your meter and the surrounding area for possible leaks. A decrease in water pressure with no leaks could be a sign of a failing water pressure regulator- average pressure is about 60-70 psi. If there is no leaks and the regulator is preforming as normal, please call our office and report low pressure for your area.
Why is my water discolored?
A repair could have been completed recently allowing air to enter the line, causing the milky look.
What chemicals does our utility district add to the water?
Only chemicals that are approved by the National Safety Foundation for treatment of drinking water.
My water tastes, looks, and smells funny. Is it safe to drink?
All public water systems are required to maintain a minimum chlorine level of 0.2 mg/L (tested at the end of each line) by state law. Systems that use chloramine as a disinfectant must maintain a level of 0.5 mg/L by state law. Our disinfectant levels are tested daily to ensure safety.
Why does debris come out of the faucet when running hot water?
Most likely your water heater needs to be flushed. CAUTION: Most manufacturers recommend hiring a professional to flush your water heater. If you plan on doing this yourself, read the owner's manual to keep from being hurt and or damaging the water heater.
If my lateral line is clogged or needs repaired, whose responsibility would it be?
Any work on the lateral line is the responsiblity of the homeowner.
What is the best way to contact customer service?
Try our new and improved fillible contact form to help expedite a solution and lets us provide a pleasent customer experience.
What do I do if I receive a request for a Backflow Assembly Test?
Slippery Rock Municipal Authority uses a Cross Connection Control (CCC) Administration Program. For more information please call 844-605-5213 or email ccc@pawsc.com.
Can anyone test a backflow assembly?
No, backflow assemblies must be tested by a certified individuals. Linked is a list by county of ASSE certified backflow testers. Please be aware that there may be other certified testers that are not are the list.
Why did I not receive a bill in the mail?
For tenants, most bills come in their landlord's name. If you are still unsure, sign up or login to our portal using the account and CID # on previous bills or call in to our office at 724-794-6552 for assistance.
Still can not find your bill? Call into our office at 724-794-6552. We are happy to assist. Please remember that SRMA does not forgive penalty charges for bills that are lost in the mail. SRMA does offer eBilling through our portal to avoid missing bills and to view online.
Remember: bills are issued around the 23rd of the month and are always due on the 18th.