Louisville Water Company delivers reliable, high-quality drinking water to homes and businesses across Greater Louisville. Our team operates advanced treatment facilities and a resilient distribution network designed to meet strict safety standards.
Through ongoing infrastructure investment and transparent communication, we support public health, local economic growth, and environmental stewardship in every neighborhood we serve.
| Service Area | Water Source | Primary Treatment | 2024 Average Bill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville Metro (Jefferson, Oldham, Bullitt, parts of Spencer) | Ohio River and local reservoirs | Conventional filtration with chlorine disinfection and corrosion control | Approximately $73 per month for residential use |
| Regional wholesale partners | Mixed sources including Ohio River and upland supplies | Tailored treatment aligned with partner requirements | Varies by volume and agreement terms |
| Emergency service areas | Backup wells and interconnection agreements | Conservative monitoring and rapid response protocols | Standard metered rates apply |
Water Quality and Treatment Processes
Source Water Protection
Protecting the Ohio River and upstream reservoirs is central to Louisville Water’s long-term strategy. We work with regional partners, farmers, and utilities to reduce runoff, monitor pollutants, and safeguard intake locations.
Advanced Filtration and Disinfection
Our plants use coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and carefully controlled disinfection to remove particles, pathogens, and chemical traces. Continuous monitoring ensures each glass meets or exceeds all state and federal standards.
Infrastructure and Innovation
Ongoing capital improvements replace aging mains, add smart metering, and strengthen storage capacity. Innovation supports early detection of emerging contaminants and more efficient treatment under changing conditions.
Infrastructure Maintenance and Emergency Preparedness
Pipeline Modernization
Replacing cast-iron and older mains reduces leaks, improves water quality, and lowers service interruptions. Priority corridors are selected based on age, condition, and public safety impact.
Storm Resilience and Drought Planning
Severe weather and variable rainfall drive regular stress tests of the system. Backup wells, interties, and storage assets help maintain flow when river levels fluctuate or outages occur.
Customer Communication During Events
Clear alerts via app, text, email, and local media keep customers informed about boil advisories, pressure reductions, or planned maintenance. Contact centers are staffed to address concerns quickly.
Billing, Rates, and Account Services
Metered Pricing Structure
Residential bills are based on consumption tiers, with a base charge plus usage fees. Low-income assistance programs and seasonal averaging can help manage costs for qualifying households.
Commercial and Industrial Billing
Large users may have custom rates, demand charges, and volume discounts. Detailed invoices break out usage, base fees, and regulatory adjustments for easier budgeting.
Payment Flexibility and Support
Options include automatic bank draft, online payments, phone payments, and in-center drop-off. Financial counseling and payment plans are available for customers facing temporary hardship.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
Water Conservation Programs
Leak repair rebates, efficiency rebates for appliances, and public outreach help reduce per-capita demand. These measures protect rivers and delay the need for new infrastructure.
Green Operations
Efforts to optimize pumping, reduce chemical use, and capture operational data contribute to lower energy consumption. Coordination with watershed groups supports habitat restoration and public access.
Future Initiatives and Community Engagement
- Complete pipe replacement roadmap with timelines for each neighborhood
- Expanded source water monitoring and advanced contaminant tracking
- Customer education on conservation, billing, and emergency response
- Partnerships with local organizations to support watershed health
- Transparent reporting on water quality, reliability, and infrastructure progress
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I read my water bill and understand the usage tiers?
Your bill shows billing period dates, meter start and end readings, gallons used, and the tiered rates applied. The details section breaks down base charges, usage charges, and any adjustments or credits.
What should I do if I notice discolored water or a temporary pressure issue?
Run cold water for a few minutes to clear the line, collect a sample if possible, and contact customer service with the time and address. Most events resolve quickly, and we document each occurrence for review.
Can I schedule a service appointment for meter maintenance or leaks?
Yes, you can schedule installation, replacement, or testing through our online portal or by phone. A technician will confirm the time and outline any prep steps needed at the property.
Are there special programs for seniors or low-income residents?
Assistance programs may include discounted rates, payment plans, and targeted conservation support. Eligibility and application requirements vary, and our team can guide you through the options.