We know homeowners closely watch their bills, and when there is a sudden increase – it’s time to start figuring out the problem. In the case of a water bill, there are some things you can do on your own to investigate the issue. Below are the four most common reasons behind a suddenly rising water bill, and some steps you can take to find out what may have caused the rise.

1. Running Toilets

Did you know that some older toilets use as many as seven gallons of water per flush? Check toilets first because they use more water than any other fixture in our homes. If they’re not working correctly, they’ll use even more water.

Each time you flush your toilet, all the water from the toilet tank transfers into the bowl. Before it can flush effectively again, the toilet has to refill the tank. When the toilet won’t stop running, it’s because something is preventing the toilet tank from refilling completely. Usually, the flapper separating the tank from bowl is old or broken. Thankfully, replacing a flapper is easy and inexpensive. You can get one with a quick trip to the hardware store or online. If fixing the flapper doesn’t solve the problem, the source could potentially be another leak between the tank and bowl or a need to replace your refill valve.

2. Hidden leaks

Hidden leaks are another main cause of rising water bills. Unfortunately, these leaks can do worse than simply running up your water bill. They can lead to mold growth, water stains, rot, and other home problems. These problems can affect your home’s resale value and even your health. Some areas to check regularly in your home to check are under sinks, near outdoor plumbing fixtures, behind your toilet, or in the basement/storage areas.

3. Dripping faucet

A single drip may not seem like much, but over time they can cause a high water bill. One drip ignored for a month can lead to thousands of gallons lost and money wasted. If you notice a drip, you should look into the repair sooner than later.

4. Seasonal and situational factors

Is it possible that your water bill is high in the spring, and you realize your sprinkler system is now on regularly? Are you working from home and therefore using more water? Did you have a guest or add a new family member to your household? Maybe the problem is that simple, and you don’t need any repairs.

If you’ve gone through these reasons and still aren’t sure where to turn, you may want to consider calling a professional. Call the pros at Plumb Pro Plus if you need help with anything mentioned in this article or beyond.