Whether you rent or own your home a water bill is a large monthly expense. What can you do if you see a sudden increase in your bill? Or, simply feel that your bill is larger than expected.
There are many reasons why water usage can be higher than necessary. The first question should be, "Have I used more than usual?" Consider any increased outdoor watering, laundry usage, or even an increase in washing cars or spraying down the exterior of your home. Water hose usage quickly eats up more gallons than you would expect. Maybe your landscape timer has reset and is watering daily.
If usage hasn't changed consider the following: leaky or running toilets, broken sprinkler heads or drip system, supply line leak or even a bad water meter.
It is critical to be aware of your usage. A large amount of water leaking near or under your home can cause long term damage that can be quite costly. If a plumber finds a leak underground or under your slab, contact your utility company. They may offer assistance, or even a credit, dependent upon the situation and policies.
A few years ago I noticed a 60% increase in my own water bill. The meter at the street showed we were quickly using gallon upon gallon, during a time when nothing was utilizing water in the house. After having the City check the meter to ensure proper functioning, we then realized we had a leak in the sprinkler line, about 3 feet underground. The weather was so hot at the time, there was no sign of dampness above ground. A landscaper used a water detector to find the leak. Not only was this an expensive monthly water bill, but also potential to create an unstable environment near the foundation.
It is important to analyze your monthly utility bills for usage. It can be a great monthly health check on your home systems.
Brought to you by Ranee Bray of TCP Realty; your Cedar Park & NW Austin Real Estate professional. Thinking of buying or selling? General real estate questions? I am here to help save you money, time and reduce stress. Please call, text or email me, raneebray@tcphouses.com,
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