Part of The Complete Guide to Home Plumbing
Start with a running-toilet check
A running toilet is the single most common cause of a surprise water bill, and it's often silent. Add a few drops of food coloring to each tank and check the bowl after ten minutes without flushing — color in the bowl means it's leaking.
Check your water meter directly
Turn off every faucet and water-using appliance in the house, then check your water meter. If the small leak-indicator dial is still spinning, water is being used somewhere — and since you've shut everything off, that points to a leak.
Irrigation systems
A cracked underground irrigation line can run for weeks before it's visible above ground, especially in a section of yard that drains well. If your bill spiked at the start of your watering season, check the irrigation system first.
Water heater and appliance connections
Slow leaks at water heater fittings, washing machine hoses, or under-sink connections often go unnoticed until the bill arrives. Check visible connections for dampness or mineral staining.
Underground or slab leaks
If you've ruled out fixtures, appliances, and irrigation and the meter still shows movement with everything off, the leak may be in a supply line under the slab or yard. This is a case for a professional leak detection service — they can pinpoint the location without guesswork or unnecessary digging.
Catch it before the bill does
Hiveix helps you track usage patterns and equipment history so surprises like this are easier to trace.