Reasons for Excessive Water Bill Expenses

Responsible homeowners do a great job at home maintenance and know the most effective plumbing treatments.

Responsible homeowners do a great job at home maintenance and know the most effective plumbing treatments. They watch their monthly water bills closely and take action when there is an increase. Despite these efforts, why does the water bill continue to rise?

Here are four reasons why a water bill might be higher.

Running Toilets

This issue often occurs in older toilets that use up to seven gallons of water per flush. Bathrooms generally use more water than any other part of the house. If toilets are not functioning properly, they will use excessive water. Running toilets are a common cause of increased water costs.

Every flush transfers water from the tank to the bowl, requiring the tank to refill before the next flush. A continuously running toilet often has a faulty flapper that prevents the tank from filling efficiently. Fortunately, replacing a flapper is straightforward and inexpensive. If this doesn't resolve the problem, there may be another leak between the tank and the bowl, or the refill valve may need replacement.

Hidden Leaks

Hidden leaks are a significant source of rising water costs. The longer they persist, the more water they waste and the more they increase expenses. Unfortunately, hidden leaks can cause more than just financial pain; they can lead to mold growth, water stains, rot, and other structural damages, affecting both the home's value and health.

Finding hidden leaks involves checking less frequently visited areas of the home, such as under sinks, near outdoor pipes, behind toilets, and in the basement. Regular inspections help ensure no leaks go unnoticed.

Ignored Drips

A single drip may seem insignificant, but over time, it can add up to a significant amount of wasted water. That annoying dripping faucet is not just irritating; it's also costly. Addressing a drip promptly by calling a plumber can prevent wastage.

Situational Factors

An unexpected increase in the water bill does not always indicate a severe problem. Sometimes, having extra guests or changes in household routine can naturally lead to higher water usage. Identifying any changes in water usage habits can explain sudden increases in the bill.

The issues leading to high water bills are always solvable with a bit of knowledge and effort.

If you need a licensed, bonded, insured plumber for your Phoenix area leak or your next plumbing project, call MNS Plumbing today at 602-362-4524.