If your water bill is higher than usual, it’s time to investigate the cause. Whether they’re leaky pipes or faulty plumbing fixtures, several potential reasons can be behind an unexpected increase in your water use.
You should identify and address the problem as soon as possible before it leads to worse issues, such as astronomical water bills or serious plumbing damage. Let’s look at what to do if your water bill starts rising.
Check for Leaks
Check all your indoor and outdoor plumbing fixtures for leaks. You can visually inspect exposed pipes for signs of dampness, while faucets and showerheads need checking for drips or persistent running water. If you find any leaks, repair them immediately. This way, they won’t contribute further to a rising water bill.
Test Your Toilet
Toilets account for approximately 30 percent of the home’s indoor water usage. If you suspect your toilet is leaking or running constantly, you should do a test. These are a few tests you can perform to confirm your suspicions:
- Put some food coloring in the tank and wait 10 minutes. If the colored water appears in the bowl, your toilet leaks.
- Check for condensation around the toilet’s base. This could indicate that your flapper valve isn’t sealing correctly.
- Listen carefully for signs of running water when no one uses the bathroom.
If any of these tests uncover a problem with your toilet, contact a plumber immediately so that they can fix it before more damage occurs.
Check Your Outdoor Fixtures
Inspect any irrigation systems or sprinklers on your property connected to an underground supply line. Ensure all valves are turned off when not in use, and regularly check for signs of leakage by looking out for wet patches or puddles near pipes and hoses. If you find evidence of a leak, fix it immediately. Even small amounts of wasted water can add up significantly over time!
Investigating why a water bill increases can seem daunting initially, but taking the necessary steps will help you save money in the long run. Start by inspecting all indoor and outdoor plumbing fixtures for signs of leaks or other issues that could be causing wasted water use. A rising water bill is just one of the signs you need emergency septic services. If required, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber who can help identify and fix any hidden problems. They’ll work quickly and efficiently before those issues start costing you more monthly money on your bills!
