PLUMBING COST GUIDE
Why Is My Water Bill So High?
A sudden increase in your water bill can be an early sign of a plumbing problem—even when everything appears normal.
Start by comparing the bill with the same period last year and considering changes such as guests, lawn watering or extra laundry. If household use has stayed about the same, inspect the plumbing fixtures and visible equipment around your home.
These four common problems can waste water quietly. Finding the source early can help limit water damage and prevent another unexpectedly high bill.
Running Toilets Can Waste Water Quietly
A toilet may keep running after a flush or refill briefly when nobody has used it. Common causes include a worn flapper, a faulty fill valve or a float that is not adjusted correctly.
Listen after flushing and watch for movement in the bowl once the tank should be full. Repeated refilling deserves attention because the lost water may never leave a visible puddle.
Hidden Pipe Leaks Are Easy to Miss
Small leaks beneath sinks can remain hidden behind cleaning products or inside a cabinet. Check supply lines, shutoff valves and drain connections for droplets, corrosion or mineral deposits.
Damp cabinet floors, peeling finishes, stains and musty odors can also point to a slow leak. Persistent moisture should be inspected before it damages cabinetry, flooring or nearby walls.
Water-Heater Leaks Need Prompt Attention
Moisture around a water heater may come from a pipe connection, drain valve, relief-valve discharge or the tank itself. Inspect the visible area around the unit and look for water in the drain pan or staining near the base.
Do not block a relief-valve discharge or attempt an internal repair. If water is actively spreading, contact a plumbing professional promptly and follow the manufacturer’s safe shutdown instructions.
Dripping Faucets Add Up Over Time
A slow faucet drip can continue all day and night. Depending on the faucet design, the cause may be a worn cartridge, washer, seal or another internal component.
Check kitchen, bathroom, laundry and utility sinks. A repair can stop the waste, protect the fixture and keep a minor leak from becoming a larger problem.
If your water use has not changed but the bill continues to rise, a plumbing inspection can help locate the cause. Keith Renick Plumbing & Heating serves homeowners across Long Island.
Request a free quote or call 631-225-6642.