The short answer
Common Causes to Check
Start with the easiest suspects. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons a day. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, the flapper needs replacing.
Irrigation systems often fail silently. Look for broken sprinkler heads, wet spots in the yard, or a controller running longer than needed. Outdoor spigots left open or dripping can also add up quickly. Check hoses and connections for small leaks that might go unnoticed.
- Running toilet flapper or fill valve
- Dripping faucets or showerheads
- Leaking irrigation valves or heads
- Underground pipe leaks
- Malfunctioning water softener or ice maker
- Meter reading errors or misread
How to Test for Leaks
Turn off all water inside and outside the home. Find the water meter and record the reading. Wait without using water, then check again. If the reading changed, water is moving somewhere, likely through a leak.
A slow leak may not show on a short test. Try a longer test overnight or use the meter's low-flow indicator if it has one. Some meters have a small triangle or dial that spins even with tiny flows. That spinning tells you a leak exists.
If you have a well or a pressure gauge, watch the pressure drop when no water is used. A steady drop suggests a leak between the pump and the house. This method works well for slab leaks or underground lines.
When to Call a Professional
If you cannot find the leak yourself, a professional inspection is the next step. The pros can detect leaks behind walls, under slabs, and in irrigation lines. They have specialized equipment that finds moisture without guesswork.
A water damage assessment gives you a clear picture of what is happening. It helps you decide whether to repair the pipe yourself or hire a plumber. Catching a small leak early prevents a larger, more expensive problem later.
If you live in Mesa, keep your shutoff valve location written down. Knowing where to turn off the water in an emergency can limit damage while you wait for help. This simple step gives you control during a stressful situation.
Preventing Future Spikes
Regular maintenance reduces the chance of surprise bills. Test toilets twice a year and inspect outdoor spigots before each season. Replace worn washers and gaskets promptly. Consider installing a water leak detector that alerts you to problems early.
Monitor your bill each month and compare usage. A gradual increase might signal a slow leak or an aging appliance. If you see a sudden jump, investigate right away. The longer a leak runs, the more water and money you lose.
Documenting your water usage and any repairs helps if you file a claim. Take photos of visible leaks and keep receipts for parts or services. Your insurance company may ask for this information, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Mesa and nearby communities.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Could a high water bill be a mistake?
Yes, meter reading errors happen. Check your meter yourself and compare it to the bill. If the numbers match, look for leaks. If they do not, contact your water utility to request a re-read. Keep records of your own readings.
What if the leak is underground?
Underground leaks are hard to find without professional help. The pros use acoustic listening devices and pressure testing to locate them. A plumber can then repair the pipe. Early detection prevents soil erosion and foundation damage.
Should I turn off my water until the leak is fixed?
If you suspect a major leak, turning off the main shutoff valve stops the water flow and limits damage. This is a good temporary measure. After turning off the water, call a professional to inspect and repair the issue safely.