Why Is My Water Bill Suddenly So High?

When your water bill jumps without any change in your habits, the most likely explanation is water escaping somewhere you can't see. A hidden leak can waste thousands of gallons before you ever notice a wet spot.

Check the usual suspects

• Running toilets, the single biggest hidden water waster
• Dripping faucets that add up over time
• Leaks under sinks and behind appliances
• Irrigation system leaks outdoors

Run the meter test

Turn off all water in the home, then check your water meter. If it's still moving, water is escaping somewhere. This simple test confirms a leak even when you can't find it.

Find the toilet leak

Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait fifteen minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, the flapper is leaking.