High Water Bill Guide
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
A sudden spike in your water bill can be frustrating and expensive. It often means water is being used somewhere in your home without you realizing it. The good news is that many of the common causes can be identified with a few simple checks. Some of the most common causes include running toilets, dripping fixtures, hidden pipe leaks, and changes in household usage. If your habits have not changed, it is time to investigate further.
Test for a Running Toilet
A running toilet is one of the most common reasons for a high-water bill. It can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day.
Here is a simple way to test it:
Remove the lid from the toilet tank.
Add a leak detector tablet into the tank.
Wait at least 15 minutes without flushing.
Check the bowl for colored water.
If you see color in the bowl, water is leaking from the tank into the bowl. This usually means the flapper or flush canister seal is worn or not sealing properly. You can also listen for constant refilling or notice water movement in the bowl. Both are signs of a running toilet.
Check for Dripping Fixtures
Small drips can lead to big increases in your water bill over time. These are easy to overlook but important to check.
Inspect all faucets in your kitchen and bathrooms. Look for slow drips from the spout or around the handles.
Turn on each shower and tub, then turn them off and watch for continued dripping. Check under sinks for moisture or pooling water.
Inspect all hose bibbs outside your home. Look for drips at the spout or around the connection point.
Even a slow and steady drip can waste a surprising amount of water. Fixing these issues early can prevent higher bills and further damage.
Check for a Leak in Your Main Water Line
If your water bill is still high after checking fixtures, the issue may be outside. A broken main water line before it enters your home can cause significant water loss.
Follow these steps to test it:
Contact your water authority to locate and access the meter. It is usually near the street or the sidewalk. Have them read the meter and turn off the water.
Turn off the main water inside your house.
Look at the meter and note the reading.
Wait 15 to 30 minutes without using any water.
Check the meter again for any change in the reading.
If the meter is still moving, the leak is likely between the meter and your home. This section of pipe is underground and requires professional repair.
Other Areas to Check
Check outdoor fixtures like hose bibbs for dripping. Look for damp areas and water stains in your ceiling or walls. Listen for water running when no fixtures are in use.
We're Here to Help
Some leaks are easy to fix. Others require specialized tools and experience.
If you suspect a hidden leak or a broken main line, it is best to call a licensed plumber. Early detection can prevent property damage and save you money.
At Wacker Plumbing, we help homeowners find and fix water issues quickly. If your water bill has increased and you cannot find the cause, we will perform a full inspection and pinpoint the problem. Give us a call at 703-450-5565 and we will take care of it.
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