At the end of the month, when it’s bill-paying time, you’re not looking for any surprises. If you look at your water bill and notice it’s increasing, you’ll probably wonder why. There are several reasons why your water bill is rising that are not so obvious. The good news is once you know about them getting your bill back down is easy. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the five most common reasons water bills increase and what you can do about it.
Running Toilets
Some older toilets use as much as seven gallons of water per flush. In fact, toilets use more water than any other fixture in a home. When they’re not working correctly, the water usage only increases. When your water bill is surprisingly high, the first place to check should always be your toilets. Toilets that are not working properly will run non-stop. If your toilet’s water tank can’t refill because of a seal issue, it’s going to keep running and trying to refill. The result is a lot of wasted water.
Hidden Leaks
Hidden leaks are a notorious cause of rising water bills. A hidden leak, by definition, is usually a leak you’re not aware of, so it just keeps leaking adding to your water meter. Even worse, a hidden leak can damage your home. Hidden leaks can lead to mold growth, water stains, rot, and flooding. If you suspect a hidden leak, you might consider hiring a plumber who can check your water pressure and know where to look.
Drips
They don’t seem like a big deal when you first notice, but over time drips add up. One drip left alone for a month can end up expelling hundreds of gallons of water. Drips are not just annoying – they’re expensive. If you’re unable to repair the drip yourself, hire a professional plumber.
Not WaterSense Approved
The EPA created the WaterSense program to help promote water conservation efforts. If your appliance comes with a WaterSense label, it means it’s 20% more efficient than comparable products. The efficiency is achieved through ecologically-friendly technology. Measurable results are available so you can compare them for yourself. If you’ve changed out an appliance or fixture with a used one that is not WaterSense approved, that could be the source of your rising water bill.
Other Factors
A rising water bill can also be the result of other factors like hosting a guest or family member for an extended period of time. According to the USGS Water Science School, one person uses about 80-100 gallons of water per day in the U.S. You can easily see how adding to the family can spike your water bill. Ultimately, if you’re not sure why your bill is rising, contact a trusted plumber, and chances are they’ll be able to put you on the right path.
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