Are you shocked by your unexpectedly high water bill? You’re not alone. Unfortunately, there are several reasons why your water bill might be increasing unexpectedly. Let’s explore the top reasons why your water bill might be high and what you can do about it.
High Water Consumption
If you have a large family or frequently have guests over, this can result in a high water bill. A lot of water is used for daily activities like showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. You might want to consider installing high-efficiency appliances like a front-loading washing machine or low-flow showerhead to reduce your water consumption.
Water Wasting Habits
If you have bad water wasting habits, this can be a major contributor to your high water bill. Leaving the faucet running when brushing your teeth, taking long showers, and running the dishwasher when it’s not full are all examples of water-wasting habits that can increase your water bill. Try to reduce your water usage by being more mindful of your daily water consumption.
Faulty Appliances
Faulty appliances like a leaking dishwasher or washing machine can also result in a high water bill. Make sure to regularly inspect your appliances for any signs of leaks or malfunctions.
Toilet Running
If you’ve recently noticed a surprising increase in your water bill, the culprit might be a running toilet. Surprisingly, a running toilet is the number one reason behind unexpected spikes in water bills for many households. A running toilet occurs when water continuously flows from the tank to the bowl even when it’s not in use. This constant water flow can waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher water consumption and ultimately, a higher bill.
Thankfully, there’s a simple way to check if your toilet is running. Just put a couple of drops of dye into the tank and let it sit for a few minutes. If the water in the bowl changes color, it indicates that the toilet is running, and immediate action is needed to fix the issue and conserve water.
Leaking Water
Leaking water is one of the most common causes of high water bills. A small leak in your water line or toilet can waste gallons of water every day. An underground leak in the service line or under the slab can be a significant factor contributing to an unexpected rise in your water bill. As water continuously escapes through the leak undetected, it leads to a wasteful loss of water and an increase in consumption that reflects on your monthly bill.
To check for leaks, turn off all water-consuming appliances in your home and then check your water meter. If the meter continues to run, you might have a leak.
Water Supply Rate Increase
Your local water supply company might have increased their rates, resulting in a higher water bill. Check with your water supply company to see if there have been any rate increases.
Let’s Get to the Root Cause!
A sudden increase in your water bill can be caused by several factors. It’s best to identify the root cause of the problem to effectively address it.
If you suspect that you have a leak or any issues with your water supply, call Justin Dorsey Plumbing! We’re here to help you leave your plumbing issues in the rearview mirror.