Why Is My Water Bill Higher Than Normal?

Noticing your water bill spike lately? If your bill is higher than normal, there could be multiple reasons behind the sudden increase. From hidden leaks to seasonal changes in water use, this article explores the most common reasons your charges have gone up and how to pinpoint the issue.

How to Read Your Water Meter and Check for Leaks

To understand why your bill is higher, first read your meter. Locate your water meter, often near the front of your property or footpath. Write down the current reading and avoid using water for two hours. Then, check the meter again. A change could indicate a leak.

Additionally, compare the number of days listed on the back of your bill. Longer billing periods naturally increase charges. By reading your meter reading regularly, you can track daily usage and spot unusual patterns. These habits help you investigate high bills early.

Unexplained Increase? Check for a Leak Around the Property

Sometimes a water leak isn’t immediately visible. Start with common areas: under the sink, behind the toilet, near your hot water system, and outside taps. Even a slow drip wastes litres of water each day and leads to higher than expected bills.

Also, check garden irrigation systems and hoses. Underground infrastructure damage can cause major waste without surface signs. If you can’t locate the source, it’s best to call a licensed plumber to check for a leak thoroughly.

Has Your Water Usage Recently Changed?

Changes in household activity often lead to higher water use. For instance, house guests, new appliances, or extra loads of laundry increase water usage. If your bill may be higher, ask whether more people than usual were home during the billing period.

Moreover, the time of year can impact usage. Summer usually brings more garden watering, showers, and pool top-ups. Always compare a summer bill to a winter one before jumping to conclusions.

Could Faulty Appliances Be Wasting Water Without You Knowing?

Leaking dishwashers, washing machines, or a faulty hot water unit can silently waste hundreds of litres a day. These hidden issues can quickly drive a high water bill. Often, they go unnoticed until your bill covers an unusually high period.

To avoid this, check appliances regularly. Look for pooling water or rust near connections. A small unnoticed leak inside a machine may still lead to higher charges over time. Routine maintenance helps detect problems early.

Investigate the Accuracy of Your Water Meter Reading

In rare cases, meter reading errors occur. Your provider may have estimated your usage instead of taking an actual reading. This can result in a bill higher than normal. Always double-check your meter and compare it to the top of your bills.

If you’re unsure how to read your water meter, many local councils in the south east provide guides. You can also access your meter directly and note your average daily water use. This helps when disputing a high bill.

Billing Period Changes and Seasonal Usage Spikes

A longer billing period means more days of water and sewerage services, naturally increasing your bill. The days you are charged should appear clearly on your statement. Always check whether your quarterly bill has more days than previous bills.

Additionally, a spike in your water charge could be seasonal. Warm weather increases garden watering and shower frequency. It’s best to track average daily consumption and see how it varies across seasons.

Shared Water Supply? You Might Be Paying More Than Your Share

If you live in a duplex, unit, or commercial building, your property might share a water meter. If so, your bill could include water use from others, especially if meters are not split. This often results in higher than usual charges.

Additionally, a leak in shared lines may go unnoticed and affect your bill. If this applies, raise the concern with your strata or landlord. You may need a plumber to assess the shared infrastructure.

Plumbing Fixtures That Seem Fine But Still Waste Water

Not all leaks are obvious. A tap that turns off but still hisses or a toilet that refills intermittently can waste litres daily. These slow leaks often go undetected until your water bill arrives higher than expected.

It’s important to check for leaks in all taps, toilets, and showers. While they may appear fine, ageing seals or worn washers often cause minor yet continuous water loss. Replacing small parts early prevents higher charges.

What to Do If Your Water Bill Is Higher Than Normal

First, read your meter and check for inconsistencies. Compare with previous bills and note the number of days covered. Identify any major changes in water usage, appliance function, or the service charge.

Next, check your meter again after turning off all taps. If it’s still moving, you likely have a leak. In that case, arrange professional detection and repair. Acting early saves money and prevents increased water waste.

Need Help Investigating a High Water Bill?

If your bill is higher than usual and you’re unsure why, Silver Water Plumbing can help. We offer accurate leak detection using CCTV cameras and pressure testing. Our licensed team operates 24/7 across Sydney.

With upfront pricing and nearly 1,000 five-star reviews, we’ll identify the issue and repair it fast. Call us today for honest service you can trust.