Question:
My house has public water and well water in the basement that's only available for garden purposes. Does any one know what is the cost of using well + electric pump vs public water? Let's assume that the water quality is not an issue here. I live in NJ (northern Jersey) and so far I only got 1 water bill for $0. We have recently moved into the house so I don't know the bills look like. I know I'm getting high electric bill mainly because of the AC but not sure it the well pump is part of it.

Answer: I've had it both ways, and usually come out ahead using the well water + pump electricity. One variable to check, though, is whether your city bills for water with a minimum usage assumption. If you would be under the minimum usage, even with watering, you'd be further ahead to go with the city. I know it sounds insane to think you could water and remain under the minimum, but I do it; don't know if my city has a high minimum usage assumption or I'm just exceptionally thrifty with water.

Generally well water is much less expensive per gallon than municipal water... the electric usage is negligible for typical residential use. BUT, private wells eventually require maintenance, usually costly... and usually some water treatment equipment is needed too. If you have the option for both a private well and municipal water I would from personal experience strongly suggest you use both, the municipal water for drinking, washing and the usual indoor stuff, and use your well for large volume outdoor use like watering lawns, plants, gardens, washing cars. boats, etc.

But bottom line, it's really not possible for anyone to know your particular water usage but you.