Why Your Water Bill Is Higher Than Usual (and What to Do About It)
A sudden spike in your water bill can be frustrating, especially if your household’s water usage hasn’t changed. While rate increases from your water provider are possible, unexpected high bills are often caused by leaks, inefficiencies, or hidden plumbing issues. Here’s what might be driving up your water costs and how to fix it.
1. Hidden Leaks in Your Plumbing
Leaks are one of the biggest culprits behind rising water bills. Even a small, slow leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time. Check for:
Dripping faucets – A slow drip can waste up to 3,000 gallons per year.
Running toilets – A faulty flapper or a silent leak in your toilet tank can add up to massive water waste.
Underground or slab leaks – If you notice unexplained damp spots in your yard or a sudden drop in water pressure, you might have a hidden leak.
Solution: Regularly inspect faucets, toilets, and exposed pipes. If you suspect a hidden leak, a professional plumber can conduct a leak detection test.
2. Inefficient Fixtures & Appliances
Older plumbing fixtures and appliances often use far more water than necessary. Some common water-wasters include:
Older toilets – Pre-1994 toilets can use up to 6 gallons per flush, compared to modern models that use 1.28 gallons or less.
Traditional showerheads – Older models can use 5+ gallons per minute, while water-efficient showerheads use 2 gallons per minute or less.
Outdated washing machines & dishwashers – Older Models will naturally use more water than newer models. The usage varies quite a bit from one machine to another. seeking out energy star appliances can reduce your overall water consumption.
Solution: Upgrading to low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads can drastically cut your water usage without sacrificing performance.
3. Overwatering Your Lawn
If you have an irrigation system, a leak or misalignment could be wasting thousands of gallons of water. Overwatering can also drive up costs. Common issues include:
Broken sprinkler heads – Water spraying in the wrong direction can waste gallons.
Leaky irrigation pipes – Underground leaks can be hard to detect but cause significant water loss.
Inefficient watering schedules – Watering during the hottest parts of the day leads to rapid evaporation.
Solution: Inspect your irrigation system regularly and adjust your watering schedule to early morning or late evening for better efficiency.
4. Water Softeners & Filtration Systems
If your home has a water softener or filtration system, it may be using more water than necessary due to:
Excessive regeneration cycles – Some systems regenerate too frequently, leading to unnecessary water waste.
Malfunctioning units – A faulty softener can continuously drain water without you realizing it.
Solution: Have your system checked by a professional to ensure it’s operating efficiently. Consider upgrading to a demand-initiated regeneration (DIR) system that only regenerates when needed.
6. Seasonal Changes & Household Habits
During the summer, water bills often rise due to increased lawn watering, pool refilling, and more frequent showers. Additionally, simple habits—like letting the faucet run while brushing teeth or overfilling bathtubs—can add up.
Solution: Be mindful of seasonal changes and make small adjustments, like shortening showers, fixing drips, and turning off taps when not in use.
Don’t Ignore a High Water Bill!
If your water bill is suddenly higher than normal, don’t wait for it to keep climbing. Checking for leaks, upgrading inefficient fixtures, and adjusting your water usage can save you money in the long run. If you suspect a hidden plumbing issue, a professional inspection can help pinpoint the problem and prevent further waste.
Need help identifying the cause of your high water bill? Contact a licensed plumber today!
