Atlanta

1. Categories of Utilities in Atlanta

The main utility services you’ll need to set up include:

• Electricity
• Natural Gas
• Water and Sewer
• Trash and Recycling
• Internet and Cable
• Optional: Home Security Systems

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2. Electricity

Provider:

• Georgia Power is the primary electricity provider in Atlanta. It operates as a regulated monopoly, so you won’t have to shop around for electricity providers.

Setup Procedure:

1. Visit the Georgia Power website (www.georgiapower.com) or call their customer service at 1-888-660-5890.
2. Provide your address, move-in date, and personal identification (e.g., Social Security Number or a government-issued ID).
3. Pay a deposit if required (this depends on your credit history; deposits typically range from $150 to $250 but may be waived for good credit).

Costs:

• Monthly Bill: $100–$150 on average for a small apartment; $200+ for larger homes, depending on usage.
• Base Service Fee: Around $10–$15 per month.
• Tips: Use energy-efficient appliances and consider signing up for Georgia Power’s budget billing program to avoid seasonal fluctuations.

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3. Natural Gas

Providers:

Atlanta has a deregulated natural gas market, meaning you can choose from several providers. Popular options include:

• Georgia Natural Gas (GNG)
• SCANA Energy
• Gas South
• Constellation

Setup Procedure:

1. Visit the Georgia Public Service Commission’s website (www.psc.state.ga.us) to compare rates and plans.
2. Contact your chosen provider to set up service. You’ll need your address, move-in date, and identification.
3. Some providers may require a deposit based on your credit history.

Costs:

• Monthly Bill: $50–$150, depending on the size of your home and seasonal usage (higher in winter).
• Connection Fee: $30–$50 (one-time).
• Tips: Look for fixed-rate plans to avoid price spikes during colder months.

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4. Water and Sewer

Provider:

• City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management handles water and sewer services.

Setup Procedure:

1. Call the Department of Watershed Management at 404-546-0311 or visit their website (www.atlantawatershed.org).
2. Provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
3. A deposit may be required (typically $50–$100).

Costs:

• Monthly Bill: $50–$100, depending on usage.
• Tips: Be mindful of water usage, as Atlanta has relatively high water rates compared to other U.S. cities.

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5. Trash and Recycling

Provider:

• Trash and recycling services are managed by the City of Atlanta Department of Public Works.

Setup Procedure:

1. Trash and recycling services are typically included in your water bill, so no separate setup is required.
2. If you live in an apartment, check with your landlord or property manager to confirm trash services.

Costs:

• Monthly Fee: Included in your water bill (around $30–$50 per month).

Tips:

• Familiarize yourself with Atlanta’s recycling guidelines to avoid fines. The city encourages recycling and provides bins for free.

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6. Internet and Cable

Providers:

Atlanta has several internet and cable providers. Popular options include:

• Xfinity (Comcast)
• AT&T Fiber
• Google Fiber
• Spectrum

Setup Procedure:

1. Compare plans and speeds on the provider websites or through comparison tools like Allconnect.
2. Contact your chosen provider to schedule installation. You’ll need your address and move-in date.
3. Installation fees may apply (typically $50–$100).

Costs:

• Internet Only: $50–$100 per month, depending on speed (100 Mbps to 1 Gbps).
• Internet + Cable Bundles: $100–$200 per month.
• Tips: If you work from home or stream frequently, consider fiber-optic internet for faster speeds.

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7. Optional: Home Security Systems

Providers:

• ADT
• Vivint
• SimpliSafe
• Ring

Setup Procedure:

1. Research providers and choose a plan that fits your needs (e.g., monitored vs. self-monitored systems).
2. Schedule installation or purchase DIY equipment.

Costs:

• Monthly Monitoring Fee: $20–$50.
• Equipment Costs: $200–$500 upfront.

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8. General Tips for Managing Utilities in Atlanta

• Bundle Services: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle internet, cable, and phone services.
• Set Up Auto-Pay: Most utility companies offer discounts or incentives for enrolling in automatic payments.
• Monitor Usage: Use online portals or apps provided by utility companies to track your usage and avoid surprises on your bill.
• Energy Efficiency: Atlanta summers can be hot and humid, so invest in energy-efficient appliances and consider using a programmable thermostat to save on cooling costs.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency numbers for utility outages (e.g., Georgia Power for electricity outages: 1-888-891-0938).

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9. Local Considerations

• Seasonal Variations: Atlanta experiences hot summers and mild winters, so expect higher electricity bills in summer (due to air conditioning) and higher gas bills in winter (for heating).
• HOA or Landlord Involvement: If you’re renting or living in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA), some utilities (e.g., water, trash) may already be included in your rent or HOA fees. Confirm this before setting up services.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Atlanta encourages water conservation and recycling. Check for rebates on energy-efficient appliances or water-saving fixtures.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up utilities in Atlanta and manage them effectively. Let me know if you need further assistance!