What you can safely check first
You can do the first round of leak detection yourself, for free, before you call anyone.
- Compare the bill with the same month last year. Summer sprinklers and a pool that tops itself off can explain a lot.
- Turn off every faucet and water appliance, then look at the water meter. If the small leak dial is still moving, water is going somewhere.
- Put a few drops of food coloring in each toilet tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing. Color in the bowl means a leaking flapper.
- Walk the yard and the sprinkler lines for soggy spots, and check outdoor faucets for drips.
What might be behind it
More than one thing can cause this, which is why the plumber finds the cause first.
A running toilet. A toilet that leaks into the bowl can waste a lot of water without a sound. It's the most common reason for a jump in the bill.
A hidden leak inside the house. A supply line, valve, or pipe dripping behind a wall or under a cabinet. It may show up as a stain or a musty smell.
A leak under the slab or in the yard. A leak in the water line under the foundation, or between the meter and the house. A warm spot on the floor or a wet patch in the yard can point to it.
How we fix it
We start with visible fixtures and signs of continuous water use, then investigate hidden lines if needed. A running toilet may need a tank repair; a concealed supply leak needs locating before its repair can be priced.
Depending on the cause, the relevant services are leak detection or toilet repair.
Where we fix it
Our plumbing shop is at 910 Cable St in Conroe. We also serve the surrounding towns. Check our plumbing service area and ZIP codesbefore requesting a visit.