Is your water bill higher than ever? Homeowners stress out when they realize their water bill has increased significantly without warning. There are a variety of reasons that can cause a high water bill, such as increased pricing from the water company. However, a large hike in your water bill can be a sign of a water leak. Find out if you have a water leak on your property by following the suggestions below.
- Check the Yard – The first place you should check is outdoors in your yard. Walk around your yard looking for puddles of water or moist soil or grass in a specific area. Sometimes the leak can come from the pipes underneath the ground. Check each sprinkler head to see if water is consistently leaking from any of them. This is a sign the sprinkler system needs to be fixed. If you have a swimming pool it is important to check for leaks near the pump area.
- Check the Hot Water Tank Pressure Relief Valve – Locate your hot water heater and find the pressure relief valve. Listen for a hissing sound or visual signs of a water leak. A strong smell and visual signs of mold are an indication there is a water leak nearby.
- Check the Toilets – Listen carefully for the sound of running water or hissing. Remove the top of the back of the tank and place a few drops of food coloring into the tank. Try to use a dark color like blue or green. Don’t flush or use the toilet for 10 minutes. Check the water in the toilet bowl to see if the food coloring is visible. This will prove you have a leak in the flapper at the bottom of the tank.
- Check the Shower Heads and Faucets – Carefully inspect the sink faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms. If there are noticeable drops or rust, this is a sign of a water leak. Also, check the shower heads for the same signs. Sometimes this is an easy fix that can be solved with a quick DIY project.
Water leaks generally start out small. Keep a good eye on your water bill to see if it is consistently rising over a period of time. Check for leaks in various areas of your house and yard on a regular basis. Fixing leaks immediately are essential to saving money. Do you have water leaks in your home? Contact a plumber and start saving money today!
Since 1968, Chip Mokher & his team has provided South Florida with quality service with a commitment to our customers’ satisfaction. Our many years of experience has allowed us to serve thousands of homes and businesses in Miami-Dade County. We welcome the opportunity to serve you, please call us at 305-446-8266 or email us at chip@mokherplumbing.com
