💧 Why Is My Water Bill So High? 5 Plumbing Issues That Could Be Costing You

By Zachary Morgan

A sudden spike in your water bill can be more than just frustrating—it might be a sign of hidden plumbing issues in your home. Many homeowners don’t realize how much water (and money) can be lost due to minor leaks or outdated fixtures. At Alltec, we help homeowners tackle these problems before they get worse.

Here are five common plumbing issues that might be behind your high water bill:

1. 🚽 Running Toilets

A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day—and that adds up fast. You might not hear it constantly running, but even a slow leak from the tank to the bowl can significantly increase your usage.

What to look for:

• Phantom flushes (toilet refills without being used)

• Constant trickling sounds

• Worn-out flapper or float

Fix: Often, replacing a few inexpensive internal parts can fix the issue. If that doesn’t help, you may need a professional inspection.

2. 💧 Leaky Faucets & Showerheads

That steady drip might seem harmless, but a leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year.

Signs:

• Dripping even when turned off

• Loose or corroded handles

• Hard water buildup around the spout

Fix: Replacing washers or cartridges can often solve the problem. If fixtures are older, an upgrade to water-saving models may be the better long-term choice.

3. 🧰 Hidden Pipe Leaks

Leaks inside walls, under floors, or underground can go unnoticed for weeks or months. These are often the main culprits behind unexplained high water bills.

Warning signs:

• Damp spots on walls or ceilings

• Mold or mildew smell

• Foundation cracks or soil shifting outside

• Sudden water pressure drops

Fix: Our licensed plumbers use advanced leak detection tools to locate and repair leaks without tearing up your entire home.

4. 🚿 Old or Inefficient Fixtures

Older toilets, faucets, and showerheads use significantly more water than today’s high-efficiency models. For example, pre-1994 toilets use up to 3.5 gallons per flush, compared to modern low-flow models that use 1.28 gallons.

Solution:

• Upgrade to WaterSense® labeled fixtures

• Replace outdated water heaters for better efficiency

• Ask us about plumbing retrofits to reduce waste

5. 🌿 Outdoor Leaks or Irrigation Issues

Outdoor plumbing problems often go undetected. Leaky hose bibs, damaged sprinkler heads, or underground irrigation leaks can silently drain thousands of gallons.

Check for:

• Soggy spots or puddles in your yard

• Sprinklers spraying unevenly

• Leaking outdoor spigots

Fix: We can inspect your outdoor plumbing and ensure your irrigation system isn’t driving up your bill.

✔️ What Should You Do Next?

If your water bill has spiked and you can’t figure out why, it’s time to call a licensed plumber to diagnose the problem. At Alltec, we provide thorough plumbing inspections and fast, reliable repairs that can save you money and stress.

🔧 Schedule a Plumbing Inspection Today

Don’t let a small leak become a big problem. Whether it’s a running toilet or a hidden slab leak, Alltec has the tools and expertise to find and fix the issue—fast.

📞 Call us now at (318) 255-9020