Why is my water bill so high? Plumbing issues to watch out for
A high water bill can be frustrating and confusing, especially if you haven’t made any significant changes to your water usage. You might think that extra showers, frequent washing, or a dishwasher are the cause, but the culprit could actually be lurking in the background: hidden plumbing issues. Whether it’s a silent leak or an inefficient system, plumbing issues can lead to wasted water and inflated bills. So let’s take a look at some common plumbing issues that could be driving up your water bills, and how to fix them.
Hidden Leaks
One of the most common causes of unexpectedly high water bills is a hidden leak. These leaks are often subtle, occurring behind walls, under floors, or in areas you don’t check regularly. Even a small leak from a faucet, pipe, or toilet can waste gallons of water every day, quickly adding up to your monthly bill.
What to look for:
Damp or water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
Moldy odor or mold growth
Higher water consumption without a matching rise in activity
How to fix it:
Check your water meters before and after a 2-hour period of non-useIf the meter readings shift, it’s likely you have a leak.
Contact a licensed plumber to examine your pipes and repair any leaks, whether visible or concealed.
Leaky Toilet: A Silent Waste of Water
A leaky toilet may seem annoying, but it’s also a big waste of water. A toilet that continues to leak after you’ve flushed can use up to 700 gallons of water a day! The problem is often caused by a worn-out swing valve, which fails to create a proper seal and causes water to continually leak into the bowl.
What to look for:
The sound of water running down the toilet long after you’ve flushed
An unusually high water bill with no change in your family’s water usage
How to fix it:
If your swing valve is worn out or broken, replacing it is simple. Replacement parts are available at most local hardware stores. Alternatively, a plumber can take care of it for you.
Check your toilet regularly for signs of leaks and fix the problem immediately.
Leaky Faucets and Showerheads
Those seemingly harmless dripping faucets or showerheads cause more leaks than you might think. A leaky faucet may drip only once every few seconds, but over the course of a month, that drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water. The same goes for showerheads: small drips can lead to higher bills than you expected.
What to look for:
A constant drip or dribble from faucets or showerheads
Unusual increases in your water bill even when you’re careful about usage
How to fix it:
Replacing worn gaskets, seals, or gaskets will usually solve the problem. If you’re not sure how to proceed, calling a plumber can help.
Consider purchasing water-efficient faucets and showerheads, which will save you water and money.
Call Emergency Plumber in Bournemouth. We are 24 hours available.