My Water Bill Went Up. How Do I Check for Leaks?

Have you recently opened your water bill and noticed a surprise jump in the cost? You're not alone. Many Phoenix homeowners experience a sudden spike in water bills and wonder what could be causing it.

The most common culprit? Hidden leaks in your walls, underground pipes, or even a constantly running toilet.

In this article, we’ll show you how to check for water leaks, what signs to look out for, and when it's time to call a local plumber in Phoenix.

Why Is My Water Bill So High?

An increased water bill could be due to:

• Seasonal usage (like filling a pool or watering your yard)

• Guests staying over

• Running appliances more often

But if none of these apply, you may be dealing with a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

How to Check for Leaks in Your Home

Here’s how to do a basic leak check in your Phoenix home:

1. Check Your Water Meter

• Turn off all water inside and outside your home.

• Look at the low-flow indicator on your meter (often a small triangle or gear).

• If it’s spinning, you probably have a leak.

2. Monitor Meter Over Time

• Write down your meter reading.

• Don’t use any water for 2 hours.

• Check the meter again. If it increased, you may have a hidden leak.

3. Listen for Sounds

• Quiet your home and listen for dripping or hissing behind walls or under sinks.

4. Use Food Coloring in Toilets

• Add food coloring to the tank (not the bowl).

• Wait 15 minutes without flushing.

• If color appears in the bowl, your toilet is leaking.

Common Areas Where Leaks Hide

Even small leaks can waste thousands of gallons per year. Check these places:

• Toilets (flapper valves are the most common issue)

• Under sinks and vanities

• Washing machine hoses

• Outdoor spigots and sprinkler systems

• Slab foundation (look for warm spots on the floor or mold)

If you're in Phoenix, AZ, where heat can dry out seals and crack pipes, these problems are even more common.

When to Call a Plumber

If you’ve done your checks and still can’t find the leak, it’s time to call a licensed plumber.

Some leaks are underground or inside your walls and require professional leak detection tools. At Vertical Plumbing, we serve the entire Phoenix Valley with fast, reliable plumbing and leak detection.

FAQ: Hidden Water Leaks in Phoenix

How do I know if I have a leak?

If your water bill is higher and you haven’t changed your usage, use your water meter to test. You may also hear water running or see wet spots.

Is a slab leak dangerous?

Yes. Left untreated, slab leaks can cause mold growth, foundation damage, and high water bills.

Can I fix a leak myself?

Minor leaks under sinks or from a toilet flapper can often be fixed yourself. For anything hidden or complex, call a professional plumber.

Do you offer leak detection services in Phoenix?

Yes! We provide accurate leak detection and repair for homes and businesses across Phoenix, AZ.

Need Help With a Leak? Call a Trusted Phoenix Plumber

At Vertical Plumbing, we specialize in leak detection and plumbing repair in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. Whether you have a small drip or suspect a slab leak, we’ll find the source and fix it fast.

Call Vertical Plumbing at (480) 577-8720