When homeowners receive a higher-than-normal water bill during the summer, the first assumption is usually the lawn sprinkler system. While increased outdoor watering can certainly raise water usage, hidden plumbing leaks are another common cause that often go unnoticed for weeks or even months.
As licensed plumbers serving Central Oklahoma, we regularly help homeowners identify plumbing issues that quietly waste water and increase utility costs. If your water bill seems unusually high this summer, here are a few places to investigate.
Toilets That Run Silently
A running toilet is one of the most common sources of water waste inside a home. In many cases, homeowners don’t hear the toilet running because the sound is subtle or intermittent.
A worn flapper, faulty fill valve, or improperly adjusted float can allow water to continuously flow from the tank into the bowl. Over time, this small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month.
One easy test is to place a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, water is leaking from the tank and repairs are needed.
Irrigation System Leaks
Sprinkler systems work harder during Oklahoma’s hot summer months. Damaged sprinkler heads, cracked pipes, faulty valves, and underground irrigation leaks can waste significant amounts of water.
Watch for:
- Areas of unusually green grass
- Soggy spots in the yard
- Water pooling around sprinkler heads
- Sprinklers that continue dripping after a cycle ends
Because much of the irrigation system is underground, leaks can develop without obvious signs until the water bill arrives.
Leaking Hose Bibs and Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets experience constant use during the summer. Garden hoses, pressure washers, sprinklers, and outdoor cleaning projects can place additional stress on hose bibs.
Even a slow drip can add up over time. Check outdoor faucets for:
- Dripping when turned off
- Water around the base of the faucet
- Loose handles
- Cracks or corrosion
Addressing small leaks early helps prevent larger plumbing repairs later.
Underground Water Service Line Leaks
Your home’s water service line carries water from the meter to the house. When a leak develops underground, it can be difficult to detect.
Common warning signs include:
- A sudden increase in your water bill
- Wet spots in the yard
- Unusually lush patches of grass
- Reduced water pressure inside the home
Because these leaks occur below the surface, many homeowners don’t discover them until substantial water has been lost.
How to Check Your Water Meter for Hidden Leaks
One of the easiest ways to determine if your home has a hidden leak is by checking your water meter.
Follow these steps:
- Turn off all water fixtures and appliances inside and outside the home.
- Make sure no one is using water during the test.
- Locate your water meter and record the reading.
- Wait 30 to 60 minutes without using any water.
- Check the meter again.
If the reading changes, water is flowing somewhere in the system, which may indicate a leak.
Many meters also include a small leak indicator that moves even when only a small amount of water is passing through the system.
When to Call a Plumber
Some leaks are easy to spot. Others require professional troubleshooting and specialized equipment to locate.
If you notice:
- A consistently high water bill
- Water pressure changes
- Wet areas around your property
- Running toilets that won’t stop
- Signs of underground leaks
it may be time to have your plumbing system inspected.
Finding and repairing leaks quickly can save money, conserve water, and help prevent damage to your home and property.
Trust Service Pro Plumbing
Summer water usage naturally increases, but your water bill shouldn’t come as a surprise. If you’re concerned about hidden plumbing leaks or unexplained water usage, Service Pro Plumbing can help identify the source and recommend the right repair.
As a licensed and insured plumbing company serving Oklahoma City and the surrounding metro area, we’re committed to helping homeowners protect their plumbing systems year-round.
Contact Service Pro Plumbing today to schedule an inspection and get your water usage back under control.
