Written By Davin Womeldorff
Licensed Contractor at Presidential Plumbing
Email: [email protected]
If your water bill suddenly jumps, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. In this month’s Ask the Plumber, we’re tackling one of the most common head-scratchers homeowners face: “Why is my water bill so high?”
First, rule out the obvious. Utility rate increases happen. Summer lawn watering, extra houseguests, or the in- laws “just staying a few weeks” can all drive usage up. But if nothing has changed at your house, it’s time to dig a little deeper.
The usual suspects? Leaky faucets and running toilets top the list. A slow drip may not seem like much, but over the course of a month it can waste hundreds of gallons. Often, the fix is as simple as replacing a worn washer or flapper, inexpensive parts you can grab at a local hardware store. If you’re comfortable with basic tools, it’s a manageable DIY project.
Water heater leaks are another hidden culprit. Even a small valve issue can quietly increase your bill and ignoring it may lead to costly damage. Unlike swapping out a faucet washer, this is one job best left to a licensed professional.
Don’t forget outdoor hose bibs, aging appliances, or even malfunctioning water softeners. These can steadily waste water without obvious warning signs.
Bottom line: If you’ve ruled out lifestyle changes and your bill still doesn’t add up, a plumbing inspection is money well spent. Fixing small leaks today prevents big repair bills tomorrow and keeps your hard-earned cash
from literally going down the drain.
Keep those questions coming!
Email questions to: [email protected]
