You open your utility bill expecting the usual, and then do a double take. Why is your water bill suddenly so high? If your household habits haven’t changed, the cause might be hidden right under your nose—or under your sink. 

Common plumbing issues like leaky pipes, running toilets, and outdated fixtures can waste hundreds of gallons of water without you even noticing. Before you blame the water company, it’s worth investigating what’s happening behind the walls and beneath the floors.

1. Leaky Faucets: Small Drips Add Up

A slow, steady drip might seem harmless, but over time it adds up to gallons of wasted water.

• The Impact: One dripping faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year.
• Common Causes: Worn washers, loose connections, or corroded valve seats can lead to leaks.
• What to Do: Check faucets in kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms regularly. If tightening the handle doesn’t help, it’s time to replace the internal components or call a plumber.

2. Running Toilets: A Major Water Waster

Toilets are one of the most common sources of hidden leaks in a home.

• How It Happens: A worn-out flapper, malfunctioning fill valve, or improperly adjusted float can keep water running nonstop from the tank to the bowl.
• Signs to Watch For: Listen for water sounds long after flushing or perform a dye test by adding food coloring to the tank—if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.
• The Cost: A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day.

3. Hidden Pipe Leaks: Out of Sight, Not Out of Trouble

Some of the most expensive leaks are the ones you can’t see.

• Where They Occur: Behind walls, under floors, or in basements and crawl spaces.
• Warning Signs: Unexplained damp spots, mold growth, musty smells, or a sudden drop in water pressure.
• Why It’s Serious: Not only do hidden leaks increase your water bill, they can also cause serious structural damage over time.

4. Old or Failing Appliances

Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters may use more water as they age or develop slow leaks.

• Check for Efficiency: Look for the ENERGY STAR label and inspect hoses and connections for cracks or bulges.
• Smart Upgrade: If your appliances are over 10 years old, replacing them with high-efficiency models can dramatically cut down your water usage and lower utility bills.

5. Underground Leaks in the Main Water Line

Not all leaks happen inside the home. Sometimes the problem lies in the water line connecting your house to the main supply.

• Tell-Tale Signs: Constantly damp areas in the yard, an unusually green patch of grass, or a drop in indoor water pressure.
• Why It Matters: These leaks can go undetected for weeks or months and lead to massive water loss.
• Next Steps: If you suspect a main line leak, contact a licensed plumber immediately for leak detection and repair.

6. Faulty Irrigation or Outdoor Fixtures

In the summer, outdoor water use increases, but irrigation systems and spigots can quietly leak when you’re not looking.

• What to Check: Hoses, sprinkler heads, and outdoor faucets. Make sure they’re turned off fully and check for damp spots around the foundation.
• Pro Tip for Long Island Residents: New York summers can be brutal, and your irrigation system may be working harder than usual. A quick inspection can save you hundreds of dollars.

Don’t Let Water Waste Drain Your Wallet

Unexplained spikes in your water bill are more than just a nuisance—they’re a warning sign. By spotting the early indicators of common plumbing issues, you can prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs and keep your utility costs in check.

Need Help Finding the Leak? Call Extreme Plumbing NY

If you’re a homeowner in Wantagh or the surrounding area and your water bill has skyrocketed without explanation, Extreme Plumbing NY is here to help. Our experienced team uses advanced leak detection tools and decades of plumbing knowledge to diagnose and repair hidden water issues quickly and efficiently.

Contact us today to schedule a service. Don’t let another drop go to waste—get expert plumbing care right here in Nassau County, NY.