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You’re opening your monthly water bill, expecting the usual number… and then—whoa. It’s way higher than normal. If you live in Intown Atlanta or the surrounding neighborhoods, you’re not alone—many homeowners find themselves wondering why their water usage has suddenly spiked.
The good news? Most causes are fixable, and catching the problem early can save you both water and money.
1. Hidden Plumbing Leaks
The most common culprit is a leak you can’t see. A tiny drip from a pipe under your sink might not seem like a big deal, but over 30 days, it can waste hundreds of gallons. Even worse, underground leaks—such as from the water line leading to your home—can run silently for weeks before you notice.
Signs of a hidden leak:
- Soft or wet spots in your yard even during dry weather
- Unexplained puddles around sinks or toilets
- Mold or musty smells indoors
- A constantly spinning water meter when no water is in use
2. A Running Toilet
A toilet that won’t stop running is like having a garden hose turned on all day.
According to the EPA, a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. The fix might be as simple as replacing the flapper or adjusting the float—quick jobs for a plumber.
3. Dripping Faucets or Showerheads
One faucet dripping once every second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. That’s enough to make a noticeable jump in your monthly bill, and the repair is usually fast and inexpensive.
4. Outdoor Irrigation Problems
Here in Atlanta, irrigation systems often run during warmer months. If you have a broken sprinkler head or your system runs longer than needed, you might be paying for water that’s just pooling in your yard.
5. Seasonal Usage Changes
When summer hits, water usage tends to increase—more showers, pool refills, and lawn watering. However, if your bill has doubled or tripled compared to last year’s summer months, there’s probably another issue at play.
6. Faulty Appliances
Dishwashers and washing machines that develop internal leaks or fail to shut off properly can run water without you noticing. This is especially common with older appliances.
How to Check for Leaks Yourself
While a professional inspection is always best, there are a few things you can do right now:
- Turn off all water in the house—including appliances—and check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you likely have a leak.
- Listen for running water—especially from toilets, behind walls, or under sinks.
- Check your yard for unexpected wet spots or areas where grass is much greener than the rest.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Water leaks don’t just cost you money—they can cause significant property damage.
- Structural issues from long-term moisture exposure
- Mold growth that can affect indoor air quality
- Wasted resources that could have been easily saved with a quick repair
Catching the problem early means avoiding costly repairs later.
How Fix & Flow Plumbing Co. Can Help
At Fix & Flow Plumbing Co., we specialize in helping Atlanta homeowners track down and repair the source of a high water bill—fast.
- Advanced leak detection equipment to find problems you can’t see
- Fast toilet, faucet, and appliance repairs
- Water line inspections and repairs for underground issues
We’ve helped countless Intown neighbors—from Grant Park to Virginia-Highland—cut their water bills back down to normal, often in just one visit.
Don’t Let a High Water Bill Drain Your Wallet
If you’ve noticed your bill jump suddenly, it’s best to take action right away.
- Call us today or schedule a leak inspection
- We’ll find the problem, fix it, and help you prevent it from happening again
Water bills shouldn’t be a monthly surprise—and with the right help, they won’t be.