5 Common Causes of a High Water Bill (and What to Do About It)

You’re doing your best to manage household expenses, so when your water bill suddenly spikes for no clear reason, it can feel frustrating and stressful. An unexplained high water bill is the last thing you need.

Before assuming the worst, it’s worth investigating a few common culprits that could be driving up your water usage behind the scenes. Below are five of the most likely reasons for a higher-than-usual water bill and tips to fix them quickly.

1. Hidden Water Leaks

Leaks are the number one reason behind an unexpected water bill jump. The tricky part is that many leaks go undetected until you see the impact on your wallet. A single leaky toilet or dripping faucet can waste hundreds or even thousands of gallons over time.

Here’s what to check:

• Toilets: Add a few drops of food coloring into the tank. Wait 15 minutes without flushing. If the color appears in the bowl, you likely have a silent leak.
• Faucets: Even a slow drip can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. Tighten the faucet or replace worn washers.
• Outdoor hoses and sprinkler systems: These often leak unnoticed, especially after winter freezes or heavy use.

The average household leak wastes about 10,000 gallons of water annually, according to the EPA.

2. Excessive or Seasonal Water Use

Sometimes it’s not a leak, but a matter of habits. Leaving the faucet running while brushing your teeth, half-full dishwasher loads, or running laundry on heavy-duty settings for light loads all add up.

Common high water usage culprits include:

• Lawn watering, especially during rainy seasons or midday hours
• Filling or topping off pools and hot tubs
• House guests or kids home from school using more laundry and showers
• Outdated washing machines or dishwashers that use more water than newer models

Tip: Upgrade to WaterSense or Energy Star-certified appliances to save water without sacrificing performance.

3. Faulty Water Heater

If your water heater is leaking or malfunctioning, it can cause your water usage to spike without you even realizing it. You might notice damp spots, a drop in water pressure, or water pooling near the unit.

A water heater that is over 10 years old may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing a water heater with an efficient model can save money and help you avoid water damage or even floodingFlooding is the overflow or accumulation of water in areas t... More.

4. Utility Rate Increases

Sometimes the cause of a higher water bill isn’t inside your home but with your utility provider. Water companies may raise rates seasonally or implement tiered pricing structures that charge more per gallon as your usage increases.

Check your most recent bill or contact your utility company to ask:

• Have rates increased recently?
• Are you on a tiered rate plan or seasonal rate structureStructure refers to the framework or components of a buildin... More?
• Did your usage cross a threshold triggering a higher rate?

Track your monthly water usage in a spreadsheet or app so you can spot trends or anomalies early.

5. Defective Water Meter

If you have ruled out leaks, excessive usage, and rate changes, it is possible your water meter is misreading your usage. Though rare, faulty meters do happen.

To test it:

1. Turn off all water in the house.
2. Watch the meter. If it is still moving, it could be defective, or there may still be a hidden leak.

Contact your city or utility company to request a meter inspectionInspection is the careful examination and assessment of a pr... More or replacement if needed.

Quick Tips to Lower Your Water Bill

• Install low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets
• Fix leaks as soon as they are noticed
• Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads
• Take shorter showers, reducing water use by 2 to 4 gallons per minute
• Turn off faucets when brushing teeth or shaving
• Water your lawn in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporationEvaporation is the process by which a liquid, such as water,... More

When a High Water Bill Means You Need a Pro

If you suspect a leak inside your walls, under flooring, or near appliances, do not wait. Water damage can escalate quickly, putting your home and health at risk.

A certified water damage restoration company can:

• Detect hidden leaks using moisture meters and infrared technology
• Remove standing water with professional-grade equipment
• Dry out your home with industrial dehumidifiers
• Prevent mold growth and restore affected areas

Whether it’s a burst pipe, a slow leak under the sink, or an overflowing appliance, getting help early from a water damage restoration professional can prevent major damage and costly repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions