Why Did My Water Bills Jump So High?

When you open up your utility bill and see your water cost soaring, it can feel like a shock, especially when you have no idea why. Unfortunately, high water bills can appear seemingly out of nowhere. There’s always a reason that often points to a larger plumbing issue that requires immediate attention.

The licensed Denver plumbers at Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical has been helping Denver families solve water bill mysteries since 1926. If you’re dealing with unexplained charges and need leak detection in Denver, here are some insights into what might be happening in your home and how to fix it.

Common Reasons Your Water Bill Spikes

Here are some of the most common reasons our Denver plumbing service team sees homeowners’ water bills spike:

1) Hidden Plumbing Leaks

Did you know that even small leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water over the course of a year? A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it can add up quickly. More serious leaks, like pipes behind walls or beneath floors, can run undetected for months. The results? Your water bills may skyrocket, and your home may experience water damage, mold, and rot. 

2) Running Toilets

Running toilets quickly waste hundreds of gallons of water in a single day or week. A toilet that doesn’t stop running is one of the most common reasons that our customers see a sudden increase in water usage. Worn-out flappers or faulty fill valves can significantly increase your utility bills, but they are quick and relatively inexpensive to repair.

3) Outdoor Irrigation Issues

Irrigation systems can work overtime when trying to hydrate lawns during Denver’s dry climate. Sprinklers set too high, run too long, or leak underground can easily double your water bill.

4) Household Habits

Sometimes the reason for water issues is simply about habit. Hosting company, extra laundry, frequent dishwasher cycles or filling up a backyard hot tub or pool can push your water usage above your normal baseline and make your water bills look suspicious. 

Why Leaks Are a Big Deal for Your Home

A higher bill is inconvenient, but the real risk comes from the root cause of the issue:

• Structural damage: Leaks behind walls or under slabs can weaken flooring and foundations.
• Mold and mildew: Hidden sources of moisture and dampness create unhealthy air quality and can damage the structure of your home.
• Wasted resources: You’re paying for water that never reaches your taps.

The sooner you track down the source of your leak, the less expensive the repairs will be.

How to Troubleshoot a High Water Bill

If your bill doesn’t match your household’s actual water use, try these pro tips before calling for help:

1. Check your plumbing fixtures. Inspect all of your faucets, showerheads, and toilets for drips or running water.
2. Look for hidden signs. Damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors often point to a concealed leak that needs immediate intervention.
3. Inspect your irrigation. Run your sprinkler system during the day and look for pooling water or broken heads.
4. Use your water meter. Shut off all water in the house and see if the meter is still running. If it is, you’ve got a leak.

When to Call for Professional Plumbing Help

DIY checks are a great first step to prevent leaks, but some problems require expert tools and training. If your water meter shows usage even when everything is shut off, if you suspect a slab leak or underground irrigation leak, or if toilets and faucets keep running no matter how many parts you replace, it’s time to bring in the licensed Denver plumbers. 

You should also give us a call if you ever notice musty odors, unexplained dampness, or water stains around your home. Our licensed Denver plumbers use advanced leak detection technology to pinpoint issues accurately, all without tearing up your walls or floors.

Preventing Future Spikes

Keeping water bills manageable comes down to routine maintenance and a few smart habits:

• Schedule regular plumbing inspections with a trusted Denver plumber.
• Replace old fixtures with water-saving models.
• Check irrigation settings at the start of each season.
• Install smart leak detectors to alert you to hidden problems before they get expensive.

With proactive care, you’ll not only protect your wallet but also conserve one of Colorado’s most valuable resources.

Schedule Your Denver Plumbing Service Today

If your water bills have gone up and you can’t figure out why, don’t wait. A small leak, slab leak, or faulty fixture today can turn into a big repair tomorrow. Contact Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical for leak repair in Denver. We’ll find the source, fix the problem, and help you enjoy lower, predictable water bills again. We also offer commercial plumbing services. Schedule your appointment today!