If you’ve opened your water bill recently and felt a wave of shock, you’re not alone. High or unexpected water bills are one of the most common concerns Maryland homeowners bring to Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating, and the cause isn’t always obvious.
Sometimes it’s a hidden leak. Other times it’s a faulty fixture, seasonal usage change, or even a problem with your water line. The good news? Most causes of high water bills can be identified and fixed quickly with the right approach.
Here’s what to do when your water bill suddenly spikes, and how to prevent it from happening again.
Check for Silent Toilet Leaks
Toilets are the #1 cause of unexpectedly high water bills, and many leaks are silent. A worn flapper, faulty fill valve, or continuous running can waste hundreds of gallons a day.
Try this simple test:
Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank.
Wait 10–15 minutes without flushing.
If color appears in the bowl, you have a leak.
Silent toilet leaks are easy for a plumber to diagnose and repair, and the fix can immediately lower your bill.
Look for Dripping Faucets and Fixtures
A slow drip may not seem like much, but it adds up fast. According to the EPA, a faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year.
Check:
- Bathroom faucets
- Kitchen faucets
- Showerheads
- Outdoor spigots
- Utility room or basement sinks
If the drip is new or getting worse, it may be caused by worn washers, loose connections, or outdated fixtures that need replacement.
Inspect Appliances for Hidden Leaks
Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can all leak slowly without leaving obvious puddles. Over time, these small leaks contribute to higher water usage and can cause property damage.
Look for:
- Damp flooring
- Moldy smells
- Rust or mineral buildup
- Dripping or wet supply lines
- Water pooling underneath appliances
If you suspect an appliance is leaking, shut off the water supply to that unit and call a plumber for a full inspection.
Consider Underground or Main Line Leaks
A sudden spike in your water bill could indicate a more serious issue: a leak in your main water line. These leaks often occur underground and may not show visible signs.
Possible symptoms include:
- Soft or soggy spots in your yard
- Unexplained puddling
- Higher water pressure inside
- Lower water pressure at fixtures
- A constantly running water meter
Main line leaks require professional attention right away. At Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating, we use specialized diagnostic tools to locate and repair underground leaks with minimal disruption.
Think About Seasonal Changes
Certain times of year naturally increase water usage, such as:
- Filling or topping off swimming pools
- Watering gardens or lawns
- Hosting guests or family
- Using sprinklers or outdoor hoses
Before assuming something is wrong, consider whether your household used more water recently than normal.
Have a Professional Inspection Done
If you’ve checked your fixtures, appliances, etc., and still can’t pinpoint the cause, it’s time to call in a professional.
A licensed plumber can:
- Inspect your entire plumbing system
- Test for pressure issues
- Identify leaks in walls, floors, or underground
- Evaluate your fixtures for efficiency
- Recommend long-term water-saving upgrades
A professional inspection often pays for itself quickly by solving the issue and preventing further water waste.
Keep Your Water Bill Under Control with Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating
High water bills aren’t just frustrating; they’re usually a sign that something in your plumbing system needs attention. Whether it’s a leaking toilet, a hidden pipe issue, or an inefficient fixture, our team can diagnose the problem and provide fast, reliable solutions.
If your water bill is rising and you’re not sure why, give us a call at (866) 532-0130. We’ll help you get to the bottom of the problem and restore efficiency to your home’s plumbing system.