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FAQ
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FAQ
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Where do I report an outage/emergency?During working hours call (662) 328-7192 and choose option 4. For after hours, call (662) 243-7440 and speak to our fully manned dispatch 24/7.
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Where do I update my customer contact information?To update contact information, please visit our website www.columbuslw.com. There you can update personal contact information via the manage services tab.
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How do I request my utilities be turned on/off?You can visit our office to fill out a disconnection form or send an email to customerservice@columbuslw.com that includes the following: Name, service address, date of disconnection, last 4 digits of SSN, and a forwarding address. All turn on’s are typically processed via our website
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Why is there a charge for “x,y,z..” on my account?The bill statement will have a breakdown of charges. If you did not receive your statement in the mail you have the option to create an online profile and view PDF’s of your bill
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How do I request a payment extension?To request a payment extension, you will need to visit our office, pay at least half of your past due amount and sign the agreement.
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How do I check my balance?To check your balance you can call our automated system at (662) 328-7192, option #3, download the Columbus Light & Water Dept app, create an online profile via our website, or speak directly with a CSR by calling (662) 328-7192 option #2.
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How do I apply for a new service?To apply for a new service, visit our website and go to the manage services tab. You may also apply in the office.
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What happens if I move and forget to turn my power/water off?If a customer has vacated the property and does not request a disconnection the service will remain active until it has been disconnected for nonpayment. Once disconnected for nonpayment there is a 10-day window before all services are terminated. The deposit is then applied and a final bill is generated. However, if the final bill is not paid, it will be sent to collections.
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How do billing cycles work?All billing cycles are generated according to our routine schedules.
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Why won’t my lights turn on after my power was reconnected?If your service has been reconnected and you still do not have power, please check your breaker panels
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Why is my electric on but my water is not?For new service, the serviceman will not leave the water meter on if something is running inside the property. We will need the customer to be at the property so they can identify the source of running water. Please call the office so we can dispatch a serviceman.
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Where can I get electric ratesElectric rates can be found on our website www.columbuslw.com at the bottom of the page > Information > Schedule of Deposit.
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What is sewer and how is sewer calculated?Sewer is considered any waste or drainage. The sewer lines allow all drainage and waste to flow away from the property to a treatment plant. On your bill statement, the sewer will always mirror the water.
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Who handles tree trimming and debris?If limbs are hanging near or over power lines please call (662) 243-7440. CLW will clean up any debris from tree trimming they have done. For more information about debris disposal please visit https://www.thecityofcolumbusms.org/286/Waste-Disposal
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Do you provide energy saving tips for summer/winterPlease be mindful of external temperatures. Heating/cooling units will possibly have to run longer to maintain the temperature your thermostat is set on. During summer months, cook outside, run drying machines at night, and close blinds to block out heat. During the winter, limit the use of space heaters, wrap windows, and ensure the home is well insulated.
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How are residential and commercial deposits calculated?Residential deposits are calculated according to the services provided. (Electric only- $200/ Electric and Water- $300), Water only $100, Homeowner- $200. Commercial deposits are calculated on the previous highest bill statements. The highest bill within the last year x2= Commercial deposit or based on Load Information.
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What is the process if I have an old bill but need to establish new service and why am I charged collection fees?Customer is required to pay a deposit for new service and half of the old bill to establish new service. Collection fees are generated on unpaid final bills.
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Why do I have a monthly minimum if no one lives at the property?The minimum is required because it is active and available for use.
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Can late fees be waived?No
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When is my due date?Due dates are located on the bill statement. If you have not received or lost your bill there is the option to set up an online account to view your statements electronically.
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When is my last day to pay?After the initial due date there is a 12-day grace period.
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Is my property in your service area?Please call and provide the address so we can confirm.
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Why am I billed garbage if I live in an apartment complex?All residential customers within city limits are billed for garbage pickup. For all questions regarding garbage please call Golden Triangle Waste at (662) 327-6660.
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Can garbage be removed from my bill?No. Garbage is mandated by the City of Columbus Mayors Office and Columbus Light &Water only bills for garbage service.
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Why do extreme temperatures seem to cause power reliability problems?Extreme temperatures can drive a higher level of power consumption across the community that strains an already tight power supply. Setting your indoor thermostat to match outdoor temperatures reduces the amount of power your HVAC uses.
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Why does CLW/TVA seem to have difficulty meeting power needs? What is driving the additional demand?Nationwide and here in the Tennessee Valley electric power demand has grown significantly in recent years. This creates a situation that is both challenging and exciting. Growth, both in population and economic development with increasing energy demand, is projected to continue at a moderate pace into the future.
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What has CLW done to avoid power interruptions?We are working with TVA—our power supplier—to identify solutions that will provide affordable, reliable, resilient, and increasingly cleaner energy to our customers and community.
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What are the impact of EV’s?Electric vehicle charging currently has a minimal impact on the power grid, however, we are working with TVA to ensure they will have the necessary capacity as more people buy EVs.
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