A higher-than-normal water bill is often the first sign of a plumbing problem. Before you call the utility, work through these common causes.
1. A running toilet
A toilet that runs constantly can waste a surprising amount of water. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank; if color shows up in the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, the flapper is leaking.
2. Dripping faucets and showerheads
A steady drip adds up over a month. Worn cartridges and washers are inexpensive to replace.
3. Irrigation problems
Broken sprinkler heads, a stuck zone valve or a timer set to run too often are among the biggest water wasters in South Florida. Walk your zones while they run.
4. Pool auto-fill running constantly
If your pool's auto-fill valve sticks or the pool itself is leaking, it can quietly add water all day.
5. A leaking water heater relief valve
Check the discharge pipe from the temperature-and-pressure relief valve. If it's dripping, the valve or your water pressure may need attention.
6. A water softener stuck in regeneration
A softener that cycles too often or gets stuck can send water down the drain continuously.
7. A hidden slab or yard leak
Turn off everything that uses water and watch the meter's leak indicator. If it moves, and you've ruled out the items above, water is escaping somewhere you can't see, often under the slab or in the line between the meter and the house.
8. Billing or meter issues
Occasionally the meter is misread or estimated. Compare your meter reading to the one on your bill.
When to call a plumber
If the meter moves with everything off, it's time for professional leak detection. Pinpointing the leak with pressure testing and acoustic equipment avoids unnecessary digging and gets your bill back to normal faster.
Need help?
Our leak detection & repair team serves Davie and all of Broward County. Call (954) 870-5492.