IRRIGATION METER
Reduce Bloating Water Bills
According to the Houston Chronicle, “Since 2021, water and wastewater rates in Houston have significantly increased due to a multi-year rate adjustment plan approved by the City Council. This plan, initiated in 2021, aimed to raise water rates by 47% and wastewater rates by 63% over five years to fund infrastructure improvements and comply with federal mandates.”
What many don’t realize is that ALL water consumption—indoors and outdoors—is billed by the city as if it is entering the sewer system for treatment, triggering unnecessary wastewater charges.
Stirling Electric & Irrigation offers several ways to help reduce your landscape’s overall water usage, including scheduling a system audit, installing a rain sensor, and switching to a smart controller. However, one of the most effective ways to lower a high monthly water bill is to install a dedicated irrigation meter on your property.
A dedicated irrigation meter separates your outdoor water use from your home’s main water supply and eliminates unnecessary wastewater charges.
The Irrigation Meter Process
At Stirling Electric & Irrigation, we make it simple and easy for Houston homeowners to take control of their rising water bill. Our team of licensed irrigators handle the process for installing an irrigation meter from start to finish:
1. Fill out all the necessary Houston Public Works or city paperwork
2. Pull the permits
3. Coordinate the meter installation by a city-approved plumber
4. Connect the water meter to your irrigation system.
5. Final tests to ensure your irrigation system is running!
Tap Into Potential Savings
Compare the cost of watering your lawn with and without a dedicated irrigation meter. ***
***This calculator is provided for informational purposes only and is based on current published City of Houston water and wastewater rates as of April 1, 2025. Calculations assume a 5/8” residential and irrigation meter. It does not account for additional fees, taxes, or tiered usage rates that may apply. Actual water bills may vary based on meter size, total household usage, and rate changes. For the most accurate estimate, please refer to your water provider’s billing details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can an Irrigation Meter save you money?
Most Houston homes are billed for water and wastewater based on total water consumption. But when you water your lawn, that water doesn’t enter the city’s sewer system for treatment—yet you’re still charged wastewater fees on every gallon. The City of Houston does not charge sewer fees on irrigation water metered through a dedicated irrigation meter, as the water is absorbed by the soil. This can result in significant monthly savings, especially during Houston’s hot, dry months.
For more information on the benefits of a dedicated irrigation meter, read our article: Tap Into Savings with a Separate Irrigation Meter - Stirling Electric & Irrigation
Will the City of Houston continue to raise water rates?
“Houston residents can expect to see increases on their water bills starting in April (2025) as part of the city's five-year plan to fund its sewer system repairs. This increase is the second-to-last in a series of five rate hikes approved in 2021 as part of the City of Houston's consent decree with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the State of Texas.” – Houston Public Media
Why do I need to use a city approved plumber and licensed irrigator?
For the installation of small water meters (2 inches or smaller), the City of Houston requires the selection of a contractor from its approved list. These contractors have demonstrated compliance with city standards, including holding the necessary licenses and insurance.
Why Homeowners Trust Stirling?
With over a decade of experience installing and servicing irrigation systems in Houston’s unique climate, our licensed team handles the entire process—from permitting to installation and testing—with precision and care. We’ll ensure your new meter is compliant with city regulations and optimized for long-term efficiency.