If you live on Lake Travis, Lake Austin, or any Central Texas lake, you’ve probably felt the sting of your monthly city water bill. For many homes, that number sits between $180 and $300 every month — sometimes more during hot summers when irrigation kicks in. That adds up to $2,500 – $4,000 per year, every single year.
Now imagine flipping the script: paying for water once (with a one-time system install) and then enjoying essentially free lake water for the rest of your time on the lake.
The Real Numbers (2026)
How the math works: A $8,000–$12,000 system (most common) pays back in 2.5–4 years at typical usage. A $6,000–$8,000 basic system can pay back in 2–3 years. Even a $14,000–$16,000 full-featured system usually pays back in 3.5–4.5 years for homes with higher water usage.
After the payback period, you’re essentially getting water for the cost of electricity to run the pump — usually under $40/month.
You’re Still Paying for Water Treatment with City Water
Here’s what most people don’t realize: even if you stay on city water, you’re probably going to need a whole-house water softener ($2,000–$4,000 installed) because Central Texas water is very hard. You’ll likely want carbon filtration for taste and chemicals, and if anyone in the house drinks the tap water, you’ll probably add a reverse osmosis system under the sink.
So you’re paying high monthly city rates plus thousands upfront for treatment equipment anyway.
With a lake pump system from 1955 Pumps & Filtration, you control everything from the start. We design the filtration specifically for lake water conditions (sediment, iron, bacteria, zebra mussels, etc.), so you get better quality water tailored to your home — often at a lower total cost.
Freedom, Control, and No More Rate Increases
- No one can raise your water rates
- No usage restrictions during droughts
- Unlimited water for irrigation, pools, cars
- Complete control over water quality
- Big boost to property value
The peace of mind alone is worth it.
Knowing you’re not dependent on the city and your monthly expenses are predictable instead of climbing every year.
Honest Talk About Ongoing Costs
We believe in being transparent. A lake pump system does have some ongoing maintenance — typically $300–$600 per year if you stay on top of it with seasonal filter changes, intake cleaning, and an annual inspection.
The good news? When you invest in quality equipment and protect the system properly (good intake design, hydrilla management, and zebra mussel prevention), you avoid the big expensive repairs that come from neglect. Most of our clients on maintenance plans go years without any major unexpected costs.
Ready to See Your Exact Numbers?
Every lake lot is different. We’ll come out for a free site visit and show you exactly what a system would cost for your home and how quickly you’d start saving.
Get Your Free Savings Analysis →