Nobody likes a surprise increase in their water bill, especially during winter when every dollar counts. If you’ve noticed an unexplained spike in your water usage but haven’t changed your daily habits, hidden leaks could be the culprit.
Winter brings freezing temperatures, pipe stress, and increased household water usage, all of which can lead to undetected plumbing issues. Leaks caused by frozen pipes, burst water lines, or malfunctioning appliances can waste hundreds of gallons of water—costing you money and putting your home at risk for damage.
If your water bill is higher than normal, here’s how to detect and fix hidden winter leaks before they cause expensive repairs.
1. How Can Winter Cause Hidden Plumbing Leaks?
During cold weather, your home’s plumbing system works harder than usual, increasing the risk of undetected water leaks. Here are the most common reasons your water bill might be skyrocketing in winter:
🔹 Frozen Pipes Expanding and Cracking – When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, causing them to expand and develop tiny cracks that slowly leak.
🔹 Burst Pipes from Ice Blockages – A frozen pipe that fully bursts can waste gallons of water per hour, leading to a sudden increase in usage.
🔹 Leaky Water Heaters – Extra strain on your water heater in winter can cause leaks in aging tanks or corroded connections.
🔹 Running Toilets and Faucet Drips – Cold temperatures can shrink seals and washers, leading to slow leaks that waste water all day long.
🔹 Cracked Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs – Any leftover water in outdoor faucets or irrigation systems can freeze and expand, causing small leaks that add up.
If your water bill is higher than normal, these hidden leaks could be wasting hundreds of gallons of water each month.
2. How to Detect Hidden Water Leaks in Winter
Not all leaks are obvious, but your water bill can give you a big clue. If you suspect a hidden leak, here are some ways to track it down:
✅ Check Your Water Meter – Turn off all water-using appliances in your home and check your water meter reading. If the meter continues to move, you may have an undetected leak.
✅ Listen for Dripping or Running Water – Even if you can’t see a leak, listen for the sound of water running behind walls, under floors, or in ceilings.
✅ Look for Water Stains or Damp Spots – Unexplained dampness on walls, ceilings, or floors is a red flag for a hidden leak behind drywall.
✅ Inspect Your Basement and Crawl Spaces – Check for signs of moisture, standing water, or mold growth, which could indicate leaky pipes.
✅ Watch for Low Water Pressure – Drops in water pressure can mean a leak is diverting water elsewhere in your home.
If you suspect a leak but can’t find it, it’s time to call in the experts before the problem gets worse.
3. What to Do If You Find a Leak
If you discover a leak in your home, here’s what to do before it turns into a major plumbing emergency:
🚨 Turn Off the Main Water Supply – If you find a significant leak, shutting off the water can prevent further damage.
🛠️ Check for Frozen Pipes – If a pipe is partially frozen, it’s at risk of bursting. Open cabinets for warm air circulation or use a gentle heat source to thaw pipes safely.
🔍 Monitor Water-Using Appliances – Inspect your water heater, washing machine, and dishwasher for leaks around hoses and connections.
📞 Call a Professional Plumber – Hidden leaks require expert detection. If your water bill keeps rising, a plumber can locate and fix leaks before they cause costly damage.
4. Why You Should Call Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing for Leak Detection
If you’re struggling with high water bills, hidden leaks, or frozen pipes this winter, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is here to help.
🔹 Expert Leak Detection – We use advanced tools to find hidden leaks before they cause major damage.
🔹 Fast & Reliable Repairs – From frozen pipes to burst water lines, we offer emergency repair services to protect your home.
🔹 Comprehensive Plumbing Solutions – Whether you need leak repairs, repiping, or a new water heater, we have you covered.
🔹 Serving Portland, Gresham, Happy Valley & Lake Oswego – We provide trusted plumbing services throughout the region.
If your water bill has spiked unexpectedly, don’t wait until it turns into a flood—contact Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing today!
Don’t Let Hidden Leaks Drain Your Wallet – Call Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing Today!
A sudden spike in your water bill could mean a hidden leak is wasting water and costing you money. Call Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing at (971) 220-8685 or visit our contact page to schedule a leak inspection today!