Houston

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Utility Services

Understanding essential utilities such as electricity, water, internet, and trash collection services.

Sections

1. Electricity in Houston

Houston operates in a deregulated electricity market, meaning residents can choose their electricity provider from a variety of companies. This allows for competitive pricing and plan options.

Major Electricity Providers

  • Reliant Energy
  • TXU Energy
  • Direct Energy
  • Gexa Energy
  • Green Mountain Energy
  • Cirro Energy

Average Costs

  • Monthly Average: $120โ€“$160 (varies based on home size, energy usage, and plan type).
  • Rate: Typically ranges from $0.10 to $0.15 per kWh.

Steps to Set Up Electricity

  1. Research Providers: Use comparison websites like Power to Choose to compare rates, plans, and contract terms.
  2. Choose a Plan: Decide between fixed-rate, variable-rate, or renewable energy plans.
  3. Sign Up: Contact the provider directly or sign up online. Youโ€™ll need:
    • Address of the property.
    • Start date for service.
    • Social Security Number (SSN) or a deposit if you lack credit history.
  4. Smart Meter Activation: Most homes in Houston have smart meters, so activation is often remote and quick.

Tips

  • Look for plans with no early termination fees if youโ€™re unsure about your long-term stay.
  • Consider renewable energy plans if you want to reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Natural Gas in Houston

Natural gas is used for heating, cooking, and water heating in many homes. Like electricity, Houstonโ€™s gas market is deregulated, so you can choose your provider.

Major Gas Providers

  • CenterPoint Energy (main distributor; handles infrastructure and emergencies).
  • Retail providers include:
    • Constellation
    • Direct Energy
    • Reliant Energy

Average Costs

  • Monthly Average: $20โ€“$50 (varies based on usage and season).
  • Rate: Around $0.40โ€“$1.50 per therm.

Steps to Set Up Gas Service

  1. Check Availability: Confirm that your home uses natural gas (some homes rely solely on electricity).
  2. Choose a Provider: Compare rates and plans from retail providers.
  3. Sign Up: Provide your address, start date, and identification details.
  4. Schedule Activation: A technician may need to visit your home to activate the service.

Tips

  • Bundle gas and electricity services with the same provider for potential discounts.
  • Monitor seasonal usage, as gas bills can spike in winter.

3. Water and Sewer Services in Houston

Water and sewer services in Houston are managed by the City of Houston Public Works Department. Unlike electricity and gas, water services are not deregulated, so youโ€™ll work directly with the city.

Average Costs

  • Monthly Average: $50โ€“$80 (includes water, sewer, and drainage fees).
  • Rate: Based on usage (measured in gallons).

Steps to Set Up Water Service

  1. Contact the City of Houston:
  2. Provide Information:
    • Address of the property.
    • Start date for service.
    • Identification (e.g., driverโ€™s license or SSN).
  3. Pay Deposit: A deposit of $100โ€“$150 may be required for new accounts.
  4. Meter Reading: The city will activate your water meter and begin billing.

Tips

  • Monitor your water usage to avoid high bills, especially during summer months.
  • Report leaks or drainage issues to the city promptly to avoid additional charges.

4. Internet and Cable Services in Houston

Houston has a variety of internet and cable providers offering different speeds and packages. Fiber-optic, cable, and DSL options are widely available.

Major Internet Providers

  • Xfinity (Comcast): Cable internet with speeds up to 1,200 Mbps.
  • AT&T: Fiber and DSL options with speeds up to 5,000 Mbps (fiber).
  • Spectrum: Cable internet with competitive pricing.
  • T-Mobile Home Internet: 5G-based internet service.
  • Google Fiber: Limited availability but expanding.

Average Costs

  • Monthly Average: $50โ€“$100 (depends on speed and provider).
  • Speeds: 100 Mbps to 1,000+ Mbps.

Steps to Set Up Internet

  1. Check Availability: Use provider websites to confirm service availability at your address.
  2. Compare Plans: Consider speed, data caps, and contract terms.
  3. Sign Up: Provide your address, start date, and payment information.
  4. Installation: Schedule a technician visit or opt for self-installation if available.

Tips

  • Bundle internet with cable or phone services for discounts.
  • Look for introductory offers but check for price increases after the promotional period.

Additional Tips for New Residents

  1. Budgeting for Utilities: On average, expect to spend $200โ€“$300 per month on utilities (electricity, gas, water, and internet combined) for a medium-sized home or apartment.
  2. Energy Efficiency: Houstonโ€™s hot summers can lead to high electricity bills due to air conditioning. Use energy-efficient appliances and consider a smart thermostat to save costs.
  3. Hurricane Preparedness: Houston is prone to hurricanes. Ensure you have backup power options (e.g., portable chargers) and know how to report outages to your utility providers.
  4. Deposit Waivers: Some providers waive deposits if you have good credit or can provide a letter of credit from a previous utility company.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utility services in Houston. Let me know if you need further assistance!