Why Is My Water Bill Suddenly So High?

An unexpectedly high water bill can be frustrating, particularly when you cannot think of anything that has changed in your household.

Increased usage does not automatically mean you have a major plumbing leak. However, a sudden high water bill can be an important warning sign that water is being used or lost somewhere without you realizing it.

Start With Changes in Water Use

Before assuming you have a leak, think about whether your household’s water use has recently changed.

Seasonal outdoor watering, additional people staying in the home, renovations or changes in normal routines can affect consumption.

If there is no reasonable explanation, start looking for plumbing problems.

Check Toilets and Fixtures

Some of the most common leaks occur inside the home.

A toilet that continues running after it has been flushed can waste water without creating a puddle. Dripping faucets and leaking fixture connections can also contribute to unnecessary water consumption.

Checking visible plumbing first can sometimes identify a straightforward problem.

Could It Be an Underground Water Leak?

If you cannot find an obvious leak inside the house, the water service supplying the property may need to be considered.

An underground leak can be difficult to see because the water may escape into the surrounding soil.

Possible clues include:

• Unexpectedly wet ground
• Soft or muddy areas
• Reduced water pressure
• Water appearing near the foundation
• Increasing water use without an obvious cause

If a damaged water service is responsible, Stillwater provides Kamloops water main repair services for residential and commercial properties.

Don’t Assume the Location of the Leak

Finding water does not necessarily tell you exactly where the plumbing problem is located.

Water can travel along pipes, through soil and through building materials before becoming visible. That is one reason diagnosis is important before deciding what needs to be repaired.

What Should You Do About an Unexplained Increase?

Compare current water consumption with your normal usage if that information is available. Look for obvious leaks around toilets, faucets, appliances and exposed plumbing.

If the increase continues and there is no clear explanation, professional investigation may be worthwhile.

You should also be familiar with the signs that may indicate a broken water main if you suspect the problem could be underground.

When to Contact Stillwater

Stillwater Plumbing & Heating can assess plumbing problems in Kamloops homes and businesses and determine whether the source is an interior leak, damaged pipe or water service problem.

Call (250) 819-8247 if an unexplained increase in water use is accompanied by other signs of a plumbing leak.

Frequently Asked Questions