Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Types of Utilities in Houston

In Houston, the primary utilities you’ll need to set up include:

Electricity
Water and Sewer
Natural Gas
Trash and Recycling
Internet, Cable, and Phone

2. Average Costs of Utilities in Houston

The cost of utilities in Houston can vary depending on the size of your household, energy usage, and the providers you choose. Below are average monthly costs for a typical household:

Electricity: $100–$150 (varies based on consumption and plan)
Water and Sewer: $50–$75
Natural Gas: $20–$50 (higher in winter months)
Trash and Recycling: $25–$30 (often included in water bills for residential properties)
Internet: $50–$100 (depending on speed and provider)
Cable/TV: $50–$150 (optional, depending on package)

Note: Houston’s hot summers can lead to higher electricity bills due to air conditioning usage.

3. Setting Up Utilities in Houston

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up each utility:

Electricity

Houston operates in a deregulated electricity market, meaning you can choose your electricity provider.
Use websites like Power to Choose to compare rates and plans from various providers.
Common providers include Reliant Energy, TXU Energy, Direct Energy, and Green Mountain Energy.
Steps to set up:
1. Research and select a provider.
2. Provide your address and identification (e.g., driver’s license or Social Security Number).
3. Choose a plan (fixed-rate, variable-rate, or renewable energy options).
4. Schedule service activation (usually takes 1–3 business days).

Water and Sewer

Water and sewer services in Houston are managed by the City of Houston Public Works Department.
Steps to set up:
1. Visit the City of Houston Water website or call 713-371-1400.
2. Provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
3. Pay a deposit (typically $100–$150, refundable after 12 months of on-time payments).
4. Service is usually activated within 1–2 business days.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is provided by companies like CenterPoint Energy.
Steps to set up:
1. Contact CenterPoint Energy at 713-659-2111 or visit their website.
2. Provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
3. Schedule service activation (may require a technician visit).
4. Pay a deposit if required (varies based on credit history).

Trash and Recycling

Trash and recycling services are managed by the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department.
Steps to set up:
1. Trash and recycling services are typically included in your water bill for residential properties.
2. Check your neighborhood’s trash and recycling schedule on the City of Houston Solid Waste website.
3. Request bins if they are not already provided at your property.

Internet, Cable, and Phone

Major providers in Houston include Xfinity (Comcast), AT&T, Spectrum, and Google Fiber (limited areas).
Steps to set up:
1. Compare plans and speeds on provider websites or platforms like BroadbandNow.
2. Choose a plan based on your needs (e.g., streaming, remote work).
3. Schedule installation (may require a technician visit).

4. Main Providers in Houston

Here’s a quick reference list of major utility providers in Houston:

| Utility | Provider(s) | |----------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Electricity | Reliant Energy, TXU Energy, Direct Energy, Green Mountain Energy, others | | Water and Sewer | City of Houston Public Works Department | | Natural Gas | CenterPoint Energy | | Trash and Recycling | City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department | | Internet and Cable | Xfinity, AT&T, Spectrum, Google Fiber (limited areas) |

5. Local Procedures and Considerations

Deregulated Electricity Market: Houston’s deregulated electricity market allows you to shop for the best rates. Be sure to read the fine print on contracts, as some plans have hidden fees or penalties for early termination.
Hurricane Preparedness: Houston is prone to hurricanes and severe weather. Consider signing up for outage alerts with your electricity and gas providers. Keep emergency supplies, including flashlights and backup batteries, in case of power outages.
Water Conservation: Houston occasionally experiences droughts, so be mindful of water usage. The city may impose water restrictions during dry periods.
Deposit Waivers: Some utility providers may waive deposits if you have a good credit history or provide a letter of credit from a previous utility provider.

6. Tips for Managing Utilities in Houston

Monitor Energy Usage: Use a programmable thermostat to manage air conditioning costs during Houston’s hot summers.
Bundle Services: Many internet and cable providers offer bundle deals that can save you money.
Paperless Billing and Auto-Pay: Most providers offer discounts for enrolling in paperless billing and auto-pay.
Compare Rates Annually: For electricity, compare rates annually to ensure you’re getting the best deal, as contracts typically last 12–24 months.
Understand Peak Usage Times: Some electricity plans charge higher rates during peak hours. Be mindful of when you use high-energy appliances.
Recycle Properly: Houston has specific guidelines for recycling. Check the city’s website to ensure you’re following the rules.

7. Emergency Contacts for Utilities

Electricity Outages: Contact your electricity provider or CenterPoint Energy (Houston’s transmission company) at 713-207-2222.
Gas Leaks: Call CenterPoint Energy at 888-876-5786.
Water Issues: Report leaks or outages to the City of Houston at 311 or 713-837-0311.
Trash and Recycling: Call the City of Houston Solid Waste Department at 311.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Houston. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!