Why Your Water Bill Might Be Higher Than Usual – How A Plumber Can Help

It’s an uneasy feeling opening your latest water bill only to find it noticeably higher than the month before. Maybe your household habits have barely changed, or you’ve already tightened up on water use, yet the cost still climbs. When this happens, the cause is often hidden somewhere in your plumbing system rather than in your daily routine. From small drips that quietly accumulate to faults buried beneath your home, there are many reasons a water bill can suddenly spike, and a plumber in Kiama is here to help.

Before assuming it’s just a one-off, it’s worth understanding what could be driving the increase, what you can check yourself and when to call a qualified professional. In many cases, early intervention from a Kiama plumber can prevent higher bills, water damage and long-term deterioration of your property.

1. Common Household Plumbing Issues that Increase Water Usage

Some water-wasting problems are obvious once you know where to look. Even if they appear minor, they can escalate your costs.

A few of the usual culprits include:

• Running toilets that continue to fill due to worn valves or faulty seals
• Dripping taps where washers have deteriorated
• Leaking internal pipes hidden behind walls or under sinks
• Faulty irrigation systems that overwater or fail to shut off

These types of issues are widespread across many homes. A running toilet alone can waste hundreds of litres every day, and a seemingly harmless drip adds up fast. A plumber in Kiama can diagnose these problems quickly, repair damaged components and make sure your fixtures operate as efficiently as possible.

2. Less Obvious Plumbing Faults Behind Rising Bills

Some causes of high water usage are far more subtle. These problems often go unnoticed for weeks or even months.

Less visible contributors may include:

• Slab leaks beneath concrete foundations
• Failing pressure regulators that push too much water through your pipes
• Ageing hot water systems that leak or refill excessively
• Outdoor fixtures, such as garden taps or hose connections, that drip slowly

Because these faults are hidden, homeowners usually only realise something is wrong when the bill arrives. A plumber trained in leak detection is essential for identifying and repairing these issues before they lead to structural damage, mould or further spikes in water use.

3. Meter Tests & Simple Checks Homeowners Can Do

Before calling a professional, there are a few practical checks you can do yourself. These can confirm whether water is being consumed even when no taps or appliances are in use.

Some ways to check include:

• Conducting a water meter test by comparing readings at two different times without using any water
• Using a food colouring test in the toilet cistern to identify silent leaks
• Inspecting for dampness along walls, ceilings or cupboards
• Looking for soft patches in soil, which can indicate underground leaks
• Monitoring appliances like dishwashers & washing machines

These steps can help narrow down whether the excess usage is internal, external or appliance-related. If any sign of a leak appears, it’s a good indication that professional help will be needed.

4. How Plumbers Detect Leaks You Can’t See

When the source of the problem isn’t obvious, specialised equipment makes all the difference. Modern leak detection technology allows plumbers to find faults without unnecessary excavation or damage.

A plumber may use tools such as:

• Acoustic listening devices to pinpoint water movement behind walls
• Thermal imaging cameras to identify temperature variations caused by leaks
• Pressure testing equipment to locate hidden pipe failures
• Pipe inspection cameras for underground or internal drainage systems

These advanced methods allow a plumber in Kiama to identify leaks accurately, avoid guesswork and provide a clear solution while preserving your home’s structure.

5. Repairing or Replacing Faulty Fixtures & Connections

Once the source of excessive water use has been identified, it’s important to ensure the repair is long-lasting. Plumbing fixtures naturally wear over time, and components like washers, valves, connectors and seals often need attention.

A plumber may carry out tasks including:

• Fixing or replacing tapware
• Repairing leaking toilets using new valves or seals
• Replacing burst or damaged pipes
• Upgrading hoses or connections attached to appliances

These repairs help restore the efficiency of your plumbing system and prevent recurring leaks that affect your water bill.

6. Understanding How Water Pressure Affects Your Usage

Water pressure that is too high may feel convenient when you shower or wash dishes, but it often comes with hidden costs. Excessive pressure places undue strain on pipes and fittings, increasing the likelihood of leaks.

A plumber can help by:

• Testing household water pressure at various points
• Replacing faulty pressure reduction valves
• Adjusting pressure to a safe level for both comfort & longevity of fixtures
• Investigating unexplained hammering or vibration in pipes

Maintaining balanced water pressure not only saves water but also minimises premature wear on your plumbing system.

7. Improving Efficiency with Modern Plumbing Upgrades

If your water bill continues to rise despite best efforts, inefficient appliances or old plumbing fixtures may be part of the problem. Over time, older models use far more water than modern alternatives.

A plumber might recommend:

• Water-efficient tapware that reduces flow without affecting performance
• Dual-flush toilet systems
• Updated hot water systems that minimise standby water loss
• Smart irrigation setups designed to suit the needs of your garden

These upgrades can reduce ongoing costs, prevent recurring faults and improve the overall functionality of your home.

8. When It’s Time to Call a Kiama Plumber

Even if you’re confident with basic checks, there are situations where professional intervention is essential. Waiting too long can lead to structural damage, mould growth or excessive wasted water.

You should contact a plumber if:

• Your meter shows usage when all water is off
• There is sudden low or fluctuating pressure
• Walls, ceilings or flooring feel damp
• There is any sign of a burst or leaking pipe
• Your hot water unit is constantly refilling or leaking
• Outdoor areas remain wet despite no rain or irrigation

A licensed professional can assess the situation thoroughly, identify the true source of the problem and carry out safe, reliable repairs.

Get in Touch

At SOS Hot Water & Plumbing Services, we are ready to help if your water bill has risen unexpectedly and you’re unsure where the extra usage is coming from. Our licensed team can inspect your plumbing system, carry out leak detection, repair faulty fixtures and provide long-term solutions that suit the conditions commonly found in Kiama and surrounding areas. To book an inspection, contact us today and we’ll organise a convenient time to assist you.