Your water bill is higher than usual, but you haven’t changed your water usage. What could be causing the increase? Many common plumbing issues go unnoticed but can waste a significant amount of water. A running toilet alone can use hundreds of gallons a day, and hidden leaks in your yard or appliances can add up quickly. Understanding these potential problems can help you take control of your water bill. Here are the most common causes and what you can do to fix them.
Common Causes of a High Water Bill
Running Toilets: The Silent Offender
One of the leading causes of a high water bill is running toilets. It’s easy to miss, especially if you’re not actively listening for it. For instance, we once worked with an elderly homeowner who had three toilets running nonstop. She didn’t hear them due to hearing difficulties, but those running toilets were the primary reason her water bill skyrocketed. If your toilet is running, even a slight leak can waste gallons of water daily.
How to Check for a Running Toilet:
- Flush your toilet and let the tank fill completely.
- Mark the water level inside the tank with a pencil.
- Wait 30 minutes and check if the water level has dropped. If it has, there’s likely a leak.
- Alternatively, add food coloring to the tank. If you see color in the bowl without flushing, your toilet flapper is leaking.
Leaks in Your Yard
Leaks between the water meter and your house can go unnoticed for months but wreak havoc on your water bill. Here’s how we diagnose this issue:
- Shut off the main water valve inside your house.
- Check the water meter outside. If the dial is still moving, you likely have a leak in your yard.
Dripping Faucets and Outdoor Hydrants
A dripping outdoor faucet might not seem like a big deal, but it adds up quickly. This is especially problematic in colder months when water can freeze, causing pipes to burst in spring. Address these issues before they become major problems.
Sprinkler System Problems
If you have a sprinkler system, winterizing it is critical. Failing to blow out the lines or repair leaks can lead to wasted water and hefty bills. A small leak in your sprinkler system could waste thousands of gallons each month.
Hidden Culprits Behind High Water Bills
Humidifier Issues
Many homeowners don’t think of their humidifiers as potential water wasters, but they can be. A stuck solenoid valve can send water down the drain continuously. This issue often goes unnoticed until the weather turns cold and excessive condensation appears on your windows. If this happens, check your humidifier immediately.
Busted Pipes
Whether inside or outside your home, a busted pipe can cause water to flow nonstop. These leaks are often hidden underground or behind walls, making them tricky to spot. If you suspect a pipe is broken, it’s best to have a professional inspect it.
Water Softeners and Appliances
Sometimes, water softeners or other appliances like humidifiers can malfunction and waste water. For example, if a water softener is stuck in its regeneration cycle, it can send water down the drain continuously. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to avoid unnecessary water use.
How We Can Help Lower Your Water Bill
We’re here to ensure your plumbing systems operate efficiently, saving you money on your water bill. Here’s how we can help:
- Identify Leaks: We use advanced tools to detect hidden leaks, both inside and outside your home.
- Fix Running Toilets: From replacing faulty flappers to repairing short-cycling tanks, we’ll stop your toilets from wasting water.
- Inspect Outdoor Systems: We check sprinkler systems, outdoor faucets, and hydrants to ensure no water is being wasted.
- Maintain Humidifiers: We’ll inspect and repair humidifier valves to prevent unnecessary water usage.
Measures to Keep Your Water Bill Low
Taking proactive steps can save you money in the long run. Here’s what you can do:
- Regular Inspections: Check your plumbing for leaks every six months.
- Winterize Outdoor Systems: Drain and blow out sprinkler lines before the first frost.
- Monitor Water Usage: Keep an eye on your water bill for sudden changes.
- Address Issues Quickly: Don’t ignore dripping faucets or running toilets.
In Summary
A high water bill can be frustrating, but the causes are often straightforward and fixable. Whether it’s a running toilet, a leak in your yard, or an unnoticed humidifier issue, we can help identify and resolve the problem quickly and efficiently.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or repair. Let’s work together to lower your water bill and protect your home’s plumbing system.
