Opening your latest utility bill only to find a shocking spike can be frustrating—and confusing. A high water bill doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. Most of the time, it’s caused by plumbing issues, hidden leaks, or everyday habits that waste more water than you realize. The good news is that finding the cause usually leads to a simple fix, and many Burleson homeowners can dramatically lower their bills with a few targeted steps.
Below are the most common reasons homeowners experience sudden or persistent increases in water usage—and what you can do to get your costs back under control.
Hidden Leaks You Can’t See
One of the biggest culprits behind a high water bill is a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Slab leaks, underground pipe leaks, and leaks behind walls can waste thousands of gallons of water every month without showing obvious signs.
Some warning signs include musty odors, warm floors, unexplained damp spots, or the feeling that water is running when everything is turned off. Because hidden leaks can be difficult to track down, scheduling a professional leak detection service is the fastest and most accurate way to identify the source.
The EPA estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water each year across the U.S. (source). Even a tiny crack can impact your bill significantly.
Running Toilets and Faulty Toilet Parts
A running toilet is the number-one cause of unexplained water bill increases. A worn-out flapper, faulty fill valve, or incorrectly adjusted float can cause water to cycle continuously—sometimes for months—before you notice.
If you hear water refilling randomly or a constant trickling sound from your toilet tank, it’s time to take a closer look. Because toilet issues are inexpensive and quick to repair, many homeowners choose to schedule a toilet repair appointment rather than trying to fix it themselves.
Dripping Faucets or Showerheads
A leaky faucet may not look like a big deal, but even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons per month. Mineral buildup, worn washers, loose connections, and aging fixtures all contribute to dripping faucets and showerheads.
Replacing or repairing these fixtures is usually simple and affordable. If multiple fixtures in your home are leaking or have low pressure, it may indicate a bigger issue with your plumbing or the need for fixture repair or replacement.
High Water Usage Habits
Sometimes the cause of a high water bill comes from daily routines rather than a plumbing problem. Common usage habits that raise water consumption include:
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Long showers or multiple daily showers
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Running the dishwasher or washing machine frequently
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Outdoor watering during hot Burleson summers
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Washing vehicles at home instead of using water-efficient car washes
Small adjustments—like using high-efficiency showerheads, fixing dripping fixtures, and watering lawns in the morning—can reduce your bill quickly.
Problems With Your Water Heater
If your water heater is malfunctioning or leaking, it can affect both your water usage and energy costs. Sediment buildup, outdated equipment, or internal leaks can cause the unit to work harder, run longer, and waste water in the process.
Burleson homes with older water heaters often see unexpected spikes in their bill when the unit becomes inefficient. A quick inspection or maintenance visit through a water heater service can help you get ahead of costly problems.
Irrigation System Leaks
Outdoor plumbing issues can be easy to miss. A broken sprinkler head, underground irrigation leak, or faulty timer can waste large amounts of water before you ever see a sign of pooling or soggy soil.
Homeowners with automatic sprinkler systems should inspect them at least once a month during summer. If your bill is high but your indoor plumbing looks fine, your irrigation system may be the cause.
How a Professional Plumber Can Lower Your Bill
When you’ve checked the obvious causes and still can’t find the source of your high water bill, a licensed plumber can pinpoint the problem quickly. They use tools like acoustic leak detectors, moisture meters, pressure gauges, and video cameras to find leaks or inefficiencies that homeowners may miss.
Superior Plumbing provides comprehensive leak detection, fixture repair, and water heater services to help Burleson homeowners get their water usage back under control. With upfront communication, fast service, and experienced professionals, they make it easy to fix the issue and keep your bill predictable.
Real Testimonial
“We couldn’t figure out why our water bill kept going up. Superior Plumbing found a small leak under our slab and repaired it quickly. Our next bill dropped by more than half. Excellent service!” – Kevin T.
Take Control of Your Water Bill Today
If your high water bill has been stressing you out, you don’t have to keep guessing. Superior Plumbing can inspect your system, pinpoint the issue, and make the repairs you need to stop the waste fast.
Call today to schedule a leak detection appointment or whole-home plumbing evaluation, and start saving money on every bill.
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