Signs Your Plumbing System Might Be Wasting Water (and Money)
Stop water waste before it costs you more. Learn how to spot leaking pipes, running toilets, and other common causes of high water bills, and what you can do about them.
If your Water Bill has Recently Skyrocketed and You’re Not Sure Why
It is very likely that your plumbing system could be the culprit. Water waste from leaking pipes, running toilets, and dripping faucets isn’t just bad for the environment, it’s also costly for homeowners. In Toronto, where water rates have been steadily increasing, identifying and addressing plumbing issues early can make a significant difference in your monthly expenses.
Below, we’ll explore the key warning signs that your plumbing system might be wasting water, and what to do about them before they become a bigger (and wetter) problem.
The Case of the Running Toilet
A toilet that won’t stop running might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste up to 200 litres of water a day. That’s thousands of litres per month, and a significant bump in your water bill.
Why it happens:
Common causes of a running toilet include a worn-out flapper, a faulty fill valve, or misaligned float arms. These components can degrade over time, allowing water to flow continuously from the tank to the bowl.
The fix:
In many cases, a simple toilet running water fix, like replacing the flapper, can be done yourself. But if the issue persists, it’s best to have a professional inspect it. What seems like a quick DIY job might mask a more complex underlying problem.
Leaking Pipes: Hidden and Harmful
Leaking pipes can be stealthy, often hidden behind walls, under floors, or in your basement. You might not notice them until they cause visible damage, or until you see a spike in your water bill.
Warning signs of leaking pipes:
- Damp spots on walls or ceilings
- Musty odours
- Unexplained water stains
- Sudden drops in water pressure
Even a small pipe leak, dripping once per second, can waste over 3,000 litres a year. If you suspect a leak, it’s critical to have it checked out right away. Delaying repairs can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and much higher costs.
That Dripping Faucet Problem You’ve Been Ignoring
We’ve all heard it: the persistent drip… drip… drip from a bathroom or kitchen faucet. It might seem harmless, but a single dripping faucet can waste hundreds of litres per month.
Dripping faucet problems often come from:
- Worn-out washers or gaskets
- Corroded valve seats
- Loose or damaged parts
If you’re tightening the faucet every day just to stop the noise, it’s time for a proper repair or replacement. Most fixes are simple for a plumber and can save you both water and frustration.
Looking for ways to keep your plumbing system running smoothly this season? Don’t miss our article, Top Plumbing Tips Every Toronto Homeowner Should Know.
Mysteriously High Water Bills?
One of the most common causes of high water bills is an unseen plumbing issue. If your bill has increased but your water usage hasn’t, it’s time to investigate.
Check for:
- Running toilets (try the food colouring test)
- Dripping faucets
- Leaking irrigation systems or outdoor taps
- Hot water heater leaks
A high water bill is often the first sign that something is wrong, don’t ignore it. The longer the issue continues, the more damage it can cause.
Low Water Pressure Could Mean Big Problems
Low water pressure isn’t just inconvenient, it could be the result of a serious leak. If pressure is consistently low throughout your home, it might signal a broken pipe or a buildup of sediment inside your plumbing system.
Sometimes, older Toronto homes with galvanized pipes suffer from corrosion that narrows the interior of the pipe. Other times, a leak underground or in your main water line could be slowly draining your system (and your wallet).
Wet or Soggy Spots in the Yard
If you notice unexpectedly soggy patches in your yard, especially when it hasn’t rained, you might be dealing with an underground leak.
These leaks are especially costly because they’re hard to detect and often go unnoticed until the damage becomes severe. If your lawn looks like a swamp, it’s time to call a professional plumber for an inspection.
Save Water and Money with a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Catching plumbing problems early is the key to preventing major repair costs and keeping your water bills under control. Whether it’s a running toilet, leaking pipes, or a dripping faucet problem, ignoring the issue only makes it worse.
At New Canadian Drain & Plumbing, we help Toronto homeowners identify and fix plumbing issues fast. Our licensed technicians use advanced tools to detect hidden leaks and provide affordable solutions that protect your home and your wallet.
Don’t Let Water Waste Drain Your Finances
If you’ve noticed signs of water waste in your home, don’t wait for the next high bill. Contact New Canadian Drain & Plumbing for a thorough inspection and expert repairs.
Click here to request a free estimate or call us today to schedule your service.