How Long Will an Irrigation Meter Take to Pay Off?

This calculator is designed to help residential customers with sewer service estimate how long it may take to recover the cost of installing a dedicated irrigation meter at their property.

When you water your lawn or garden using your main home water meter, you’re charged for both the water used and wastewater (sewer) fees, even though outdoor water never enters the sewer system. Installing a separate irrigation meter allows you to exclude that outdoor usage from wastewater billing, potentially reducing your total monthly utility costs during the irrigation season.

To use the calculator, simply select your meter size and whether your property is inside or outside city limits. Then enter your water usage during a non-irrigation month (such as December) and a typical irrigation month (such as August). The calculator will estimate your breakeven time (how many years it would take for your sewer savings to cover the installation cost of the irrigation meter) and also your potential annual savings.

If your current usage isn’t high enough to justify the installation, the calculator will let you know.

Note: This tool is intended for residential customers who have sewer service through Cleveland Utilities. If you do not have sewer service through Cleveland Utilities, this calculator does not apply to your account.

Click Here to view more information regarding billing and rates, including our current rates schedule.

Last Updated: July 1, 2025

Calculation based on meter pricing effective September 1, 2025

Disclaimer

This calculator is provided for informational and estimation purposes only. It is intended to help customers with sewer service estimate potential savings from installing a dedicated irrigation meter based on current rates and usage inputs. Actual savings may vary and are not guaranteed. This calculator does not account for future rate adjustments, changes in billing practices, installation costs beyond the meter fee, or any other fees that may apply. Customers should consult with Cleveland Utilities for official rate schedules, policies, and specific account information before making any decisions regarding meter installation.