Has your water bill crept up over the past few months—even though your usage habits haven’t changed? You’re not alone. Many homeowners in Gresham, Clackamas, and throughout the Portland area are surprised to see unexpected spikes in their water costs.
While rising utility rates can play a part, there’s another likely culprit: a hidden plumbing issue. From silent leaks to inefficient fixtures, there are several plumbing-related reasons why your water bill could be higher than usual. In this post, we’ll walk you through what to look for, how to troubleshoot the problem, and when it’s time to call in a pro.
Top Plumbing Causes of Rising Water Bills
Even small inefficiencies can add up quickly. Here are some of the most common plumbing-related issues that drive up water usage without obvious symptoms:
- Running Toilets
A worn-out flapper or valve seal can cause your toilet to run constantly. A single running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day—adding tens of dollars to your monthly bill.
- Silent Leaks
Leaks behind walls, under sinks, or in crawlspaces often go unnoticed until damage appears. But they’re constantly wasting water and driving up your costs.
- Leaky Faucets or Showerheads
That slow drip you’ve been ignoring? Over time, it can waste hundreds of gallons per month.
- Old or Inefficient Fixtures
Outdated toilets, showerheads, and faucets may use far more water than modern models. If your fixtures are more than 10–15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade.
- Outdoor Leaks
Irrigation systems, hose bibs, or underground supply lines can crack or wear out—especially after a cold Portland winter. If your outdoor plumbing isn’t regularly checked, it could be leaking silently into your yard.
How to Check for a Hidden Leak
Here’s a quick method to determine if your plumbing system is losing water:
- Turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures—both inside and outside.
- Locate your water meter (usually near the curb or sidewalk).
- Watch the dial. If it’s moving, there’s water flowing somewhere—even though everything is turned off.
Still not sure? Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing offers non-invasive leak detection services using thermal imaging and pressure testing to find the issue fast.
Signs It’s Time to Call a Plumber
Some water waste isn’t visible to the eye, but these red flags should prompt an immediate inspection:
- Your bill increased by 10% or more with no change in use
- Damp spots on floors, walls, or ceilings
- Mold or mildew odors around sinks, toilets, or cabinets
- Dripping noises when fixtures aren’t running
- Poor water pressure in isolated fixtures or across your home
These symptoms often point to more serious problems like deteriorated pipes, broken valves, or underground leaks.
The Cost of Waiting
Ignoring unexplained increases in your water bill can lead to:
- Structural damage from leaks
- Mold and mildew issues
- Higher repair costs down the road
- Wasted money on monthly bills
In many cases, identifying and fixing a single issue—like a leaking toilet or faulty valve—can immediately reduce your utility costs.
Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing Can Help
We’ve helped hundreds of Portland-area homeowners lower their water bills by:
- Replacing worn or outdated fixtures
- Locating and repairing hidden leaks
- Installing smart water monitors and shut-off systems
- Upgrading to low-flow toilets and high-efficiency faucets
If your bill is higher than it should be, we’ll help you get to the bottom of it—fast.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Clackamas, or the Greater Portland area, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is your local expert for dependable service and fair pricing. From hidden leak detection to fixture upgrades, we’ve got your home covered.
Contact us today to schedule your water efficiency inspection.
