8 Reasons For A High Water Bill
Ever get your water bill, and you’re shocked at how high it is? Simple things we don’t always think about can contribute to you shelling out more money, like leaky toilets and leaky faucets and fixtures. Even a small leak can add up over time. Here are eight reasons why your water bill could be higher than it should be.
1. Running Toilet
A leaky or running toilet can waste quite a bit of water. Toilets are responsible for about 31 percent of water use in the average home, so an issue with wasting water can quickly add up. There are two common ways to check for toilet issues:
- Sound: A running toilet will make noise, and you’ll be able to hear the water running. Simply walk up to your toilet, and listen. If you hear any unusual noises, like water running or hissing sounds, it’s time to investigate what’s happening. Check the flapper, the water lines, and the fill valve. Even minor adjustments can stop a leaking toilet in its tracks.
- Dye Test: Put some food coloring in the tank of your toilet, and check the bowl in 15 to 20 minutes. If the water in the bowl has the coloring you added to the tank in it, there’s a leak.
In most cases, replacing the flapper, which involves a trip to the hardware store, can alleviate any issues.
2. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
Water leaky from a wonky faucet can also boost your water bill, and have you paying more than expected. Even a small leak can add up. Luckily, a leaking faucet is both easy to see, and easy to fix.
Simply checking your faucets for a leak visually will tell you if there’s an issue. The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a faulty rubber washer in the handle, which can be easily replaced by turning off the water to the faucet, removing the handle, and putting in a new rubber washer.
3. Irrigation Leaks
Leaks in the systems you may use to water your lawn, landscaping, or garden may leak, and that can also add up. These leaks are a bit more difficult to spot. If you notice any unusually large wet spots on your lawn, or any areas of grass that seem more lush than others, you may have a leak. A professional plumber can help you find and fix this kind of leak.
4. Lateral Line Leaks
If you can’t find the leak in your home, it’s possible the water supply line to your house has a crack or leak in it. While it’s difficult to pinpoint the cause of the leak, anything from the age of the pipe, to animal disturbances, to tree roots could potentially cause a leak.
A leaky supply line is more severe than a toilet or faucet leak, and you’ll need to have a professional plumber diagnose the leak and fix it.
5. Outdated Toilets and Fixtures
If you own an older home, you may have outdated toilets and faucets in your home. Newer fixtures and toilets are made to be water and energy efficient. Replacing older fixtures can cut down on costs long term. If you’re buying a home, it may be worth asking if the fixtures have been replaced since the home was built.
6. Changes in Water Use
Sometimes the change in your bill comes from using more water than you usually would. Maybe you’re building an outdoor ice rink, or filling a pool. Maybe you have a house guest. Any increase in water use will have an increase in cost attached.
7. Water-Consuming Equipment
As with using water more, using water in equipment could result in a higher bill. Pools, sprinkler systems, washing machines, freezers, and other equipment can boost your bill quite a bit.
8. Bad Habits
Sometimes, our bad, water-wasting habits are the cause of a higher water bill. Here are a few:
- Overwatering lawns and gardens
- Lengthy and unnecessary showers
- Running water to thaw frozen food items
- Washing dishes by hand
- Running the water while shaving or brushing your teeth
Cutting down on any of these habits can save you money.
Water experts in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio
Figuring out why your water bill is higher than usual may require a licensed professional. For recommendations and a free estimate to repair, install or replace leaky water lines and fixtures in your home, talk to the pros at Ohio Buckeye Plumbing. To schedule an appointment, call (440) 283-9377.