Moving to a new city involves many moving parts, and setting up your essential services is one of the most important tasks on your checklist. Sacramento has a unique utility landscape, particularly when it comes to electricity and water services, which are often managed by community-owned districts rather than private corporations. This guide provides a straightforward overview of how to establish, manage, and pay for your Sacramento utilities to ensure your home is ready from day one.
Whether you are moving into a historic home in Midtown, a suburban house in Natomas, or an apartment in East Sacramento, you will likely deal with three or four primary providers. This article breaks down the providers for electricity, natural gas, water, and waste management, along with tips for saving money and finding financial assistance.
Electricity Services in Sacramento
In most of the United States, electricity is provided by large, investor-owned utilities. Sacramento is different because the majority of the city and county are served by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD).
SMUD is a community-owned, not-for-profit electric service that consistently ranks high for customer satisfaction. Because it is a cooperative, its rates are historically lower than those of neighboring private utility companies. If you live within Sacramento County, SMUD will almost certainly be your electricity provider.
How to Start SMUD Service
Setting up an account with SMUD is a simple process that can be completed online or over the phone. You should aim to request your service start date at least two to three business days before you move in.
- Online: Visit the SMUD website and navigate to the “Start Service” section. You will need your new address, Social Security number, and move-in date.
- Phone: Call SMUD customer service at 1-888-742-7683.
- Deposits: Depending on your credit history, SMUD may require a security deposit, which is typically returned after a year of on-time payments.
Electricity for Surrounding Areas (PG&E)
While SMUD covers the vast majority of the region, some outlying areas or specific pockets near the county lines may receive electricity from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). Always verify with your landlord or real estate agent which provider services your specific address.
Natural Gas Services
While SMUD handles electricity, it does not provide natural gas. In Sacramento, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) is the sole provider for natural gas services for both residential and commercial customers.
If your home uses gas for heating, cooking, or water heating, you must set up a separate account with PG&E. It is common for Sacramento residents to receive two separate energy bills: one from SMUD for lights and appliances, and one from PG&E for gas usage.
Setting Up Your Gas Account
To start your gas service, visit the PG&E website or call 1-800-743-5000. Like SMUD, they will require your personal identification and move-in details. If the gas has been turned off at the property, a technician may need to visit the home to perform a safety check before restoring service.
Water, Sewer, and Trash Services
In Sacramento, water, sewer, and garbage services are often bundled together into a single bill. However, the provider depends heavily on whether you live within the city limits or in the unincorporated parts of the county.
City of Sacramento Department of Utilities
If your home is within the City of Sacramento limits, the Department of Utilities manages your water, sewer, and storm drainage. They also coordinate with the Recycling and Solid Waste division for your trash and recycling pickup.
The City of Sacramento uses a consolidated billing system. This means you receive one monthly statement that covers:
- Water usage and service charges.
- Sewer and storm drain maintenance.
- Weekly garbage, recycling, and organic waste (yard waste) collection.
Sacramento County Utilities
If you live outside the city limits in areas like Arden-Arcade, Carmichael, or Fair Oaks, your services may be split. You will likely receive a bill from the Sacramento County Department of Waste Management and Recycling for trash and a separate bill from the Sacramento County Water Agency or a local private water district like California American Water.
Waste Management and Recycling Rules
Sacramento takes waste diversion seriously. Residents are required to separate their waste into three distinct bins: the garbage bin (Grey), the recycling bin (Blue), and the organics bin (Green).
As of recent California state laws, all residents must place food scraps and organic waste into their green bins rather than the trash. This includes fruit pits, vegetable peels, meat scraps, and coffee grounds. This initiative helps reduce methane emissions in landfills.
Additionally, the City of Sacramento offers a “Household Junk Pickup” program. Residents can schedule two free appointments per year to have large items, like furniture or appliances, picked up from the curb. This is a highly useful service for those moving in or out of a home.
Internet, Cable, and Phone Providers
Unlike electricity or water, internet and television services are provided by private companies in a competitive market. The availability of specific providers can vary block by block, especially when it comes to high-speed fiber optics.
The primary providers in the Sacramento area include:
- Xfinity (Comcast): Widely available throughout the city and county, offering cable internet and TV bundles.
- AT&T: Offers both DSL and high-speed Fiber internet in many neighborhoods.
- Consolidated Communications: Provides fiber and DSL services, primarily in the northern parts of the county and suburbs.
- T-Mobile/Verizon Home Internet: 5G wireless home internet is becoming a popular, contract-free alternative in well-covered areas.
It is recommended to use an online comparison tool or check the specific address on the provider’s website to see which speeds are available at your new location.
Step-by-Step Checklist for New Residents
To ensure a smooth transition, follow these steps to get your utilities in order. Ideally, you should begin this process two weeks before your move-in date.
- Identify your providers: Check with your landlord or use the city/county boundary maps to confirm who provides your water and electricity.
- Contact SMUD: Schedule your electricity to turn on the day before you arrive.
- Contact PG&E: Ensure your gas service is active, especially in winter months when pipes can freeze or the home will be uncomfortably cold.
- Set up City/County Billing: Call 311 (within city limits) or 916-875-5555 (county) to transfer the water and trash services into your name.
- Schedule Internet Installation: Technicians often have a lead time of 5-7 days for new installations.
- Update your billing address: Ensure all providers have your correct contact information for paperless billing or physical statements.
Financial Assistance and Energy Efficiency
If you are concerned about the cost of utilities, Sacramento offers several programs to help low-income households. SMUD provides the Energy Assistance Program Rate (EAPR), which offers a monthly discount on the bill for those who qualify based on household income.
PG&E offers the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which can save residents 20% or more on their monthly gas bills. Additionally, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that provides one-time financial assistance to help pay for heating or cooling costs.
For those looking to lower their bills through efficiency, SMUD offers various rebates for installing smart thermostats, energy-efficient appliances, and even electric vehicle chargers. Taking advantage of these programs can significantly reduce your long-term living expenses in Sacramento.
Conclusion
Managing utilities in Sacramento is a straightforward process once you understand the roles of SMUD, PG&E, and the local municipal departments. By setting up your accounts in advance and understanding the waste management rules, you can focus on settling into your new home without any service interruptions. Remember to keep a list of your account numbers and customer service contacts in a safe place for future reference.
For more practical advice on managing your home and navigating city services, explore our other guides on home maintenance and local living at SearchAndHelp.com. We are here to help you find the answers you need for a more comfortable and organized life.