Why is My Water Bill So High?

Water bills can be a major source of stress and confusion for many people. If you’re receiving an abnormally high water statement each month, you may be wondering why it’s so expensive and what you can do to reduce it. From leaky pipes to increased rates, we’re exploring five possible reasons your water bill might be high, as well as tips on how to lower it. So if you’re ready to take control of your water utility bill, let’s dive in!

5 Reasons Your Water Bill Might Be High

If your water bill suddenly spikes, it can be a bit of a shock. But don’t panic; there are some common causes for high water statements that you can look into and rectify.

Reason #1: Leaky Pipes

A leaky toilet, faucet, or pipe can cause your bill to skyrocket without you even noticing. Check for any visible signs of leakage and call a plumber if necessary to diagnose and repair the issue. The plumber may need to use special equipment, such as thermal imaging cameras or pressure testing devices, to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Once located, they will then be able to repair it quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption.

Reason #2: Toilets that Continuously Run

Running toilets are a common problem for homeowners. Not only can they be incredibly annoying, but they can also quickly become costly if left unchecked. Running toilets are typically caused by a dirty flapper, a broken flush valve, or a damaged fill valve. Once you have identified where the damage is, replacing any worn-out parts with new ones should be relatively simple. However, if you’re not confident in your DIY skills, then it may be worth calling in a plumbing repair professional to take a look at things.

Reason #3: Filling Up a Swimming Pool

Filling up your swimming pool can be a fun and exciting part of owning a pool, but it can also be an expensive endeavor. After all, if you have to fill up a large pool with water from your garden hose, you’re likely to see a big spike in your water bill!

Reason #4: Overusing Water

Overusing water can quickly add up to a surprisingly high water bill. While it’s important to stay hydrated and keep your lawn looking great, it’s equally important to be mindful of how much water you’re actually using. 

Reason #5: Water Rates Have Increased

Water rates have been on the rise across the country, and unfortunately, this means that many households are now paying more than ever for their water usage. If you’ve noticed an increase in your bill, one of the first things you should do is check your community water rates to see if they’ve gone up. You can also ask neighbors if they’ve noticed an increase, as well.

How to Lower Your Water Bill

Water bills can add up quickly, so it’s important to take steps to lower your costs. Here are a few tips that could help reduce your utility payment:

Check for plumbing leaks. A small leak in your home’s plumbing system can cause a significant increase in your utility bill each month. Look around for signs of moisture or wet spots in the walls and floors, as these could be indicators of a leak. Additionally, make sure to inspect any exposed pipes and hoses for any visible signs of dripping or leaking.

Replace old toilets with low-flow models. Older toilets can use up to 7 gallons of water per flush – more than double the amount used by newer low-flow models! So if you have an older model installed in your home, consider replacing it with one that uses less water and is more efficient overall.

Make sure everyone takes shorter showers! Showering accounts for a large portion of most households’ water usage – that means if everyone in the family reduces their shower time by just a few minutes each day, you could see quite a bit of savings on your monthly bill. Other ways to reduce your household water consumption include turning off the water while brushing your teeth, only running the dishwasher and washing machine when they’re full, and covering your pool during the winter months.

When to Call a Plumber for High Water Bills

If you’re noticing unusually high water expenses and you’ve explored all the reasons above, it may be time to call a plumber. A professional plumber can help identify the source of your high utility bill and provide a solution. Superior Water & Air proudly serves homeowners in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Garden City, Idaho, and are equipped to handle every plumbing need that comes our way. Contact your local Utah and Idaho plumber today!