Ah, July in San Bernardino! The sun is shining, the pools are sparkling, and the BBQ grills are fired up. It’s a beautiful time of year in Southern California. Then the July water bill arrives. What caused this spike and, more importantly, how can you save money and water during these hot summer months? At Ballard Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, we understand that high water bills can be a real headache. While some increase in water usage during summer is to be expected, a sudden and dramatic spike often points to specific issues that can be addressed. Let’s dive into why your water bill might be soaring in July and, more importantly, what you can do about it.
The usual suspects: Why July bills get high
Before we get to the hidden problems, let’s acknowledge the obvious reasons for increased water use in summer:
- Lawn and garden watering: This is by far the biggest culprit. Our beautiful San Bernardino landscapes need more frequent and deeper watering when temperatures rise, and evaporation rates are high.
- Pool usage: More swimming means more evaporation, which in turn means more refilling. Backwashing filters also consume a significant amount of water.
- More showers: With more outdoor activity and higher temperatures, families tend to take more showers.
- Washing cars and cleaning outdoor equipment: Summer often means more car washes and hosing down patios or driveways.
While these activities contribute, a spike beyond what you’d expect from normal summer living often points to something else.
The hidden culprits: Leaks you might not see
This is where your plumbing system comes into play, and where Ballard Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning can really help. Leaks, even small ones, can waste an astonishing amount of water over a month.
Running toilets: A running toilet is one of the most common and overlooked sources of water waste. It might be a phantom flush that cycles on and off, or a constant trickle that’s barely audible. Here’s one way to check: Drop a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank. Don’t flush. Wait 15-30 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, you have a leak. Often, it’s a worn-out flapper valve that needs replacing, or an improperly set float. These can sometimes be DIY fixes, but if you’re unsure, our expert plumbers can quickly diagnose and repair the issue.
Leaky faucets and showerheads: Even a slow drip from a faucet can add up to hundreds of gallons of wasted water during the month. A showerhead that constantly drips can be even worse. Visually inspect all faucets, showerheads, and outdoor spigots for visible drips. Usually, replacing a worn-out washer or O-ring is all that’s needed. If you’re not comfortable with plumbing repairs, our team can handle it efficiently.
3. Underground pipe leaks
These are the most insidious because they’re often hidden from view. A leak in your main water line or an irrigation pipe underground can go unnoticed for weeks, quietly racking up a huge bill. There are a few ways you can check for these hidden leaks:
- Meter test: Turn off all water-consuming appliances and faucets in your home and make sure no one is using water. Go to your water meter and note the reading. Wait 15-30 minutes. If the meter reading has changed, you likely have a leak somewhere on your property. Many modern meters also have a small leak detector dial (often a small triangle or star) that spins even with tiny water flow.
- Look for wet spots: Check your yard for unusually lush, green patches of grass, or perpetually wet areas, especially if it hasn’t rained.
- Listen: Sometimes you can hear a faint hissing or rushing sound underground.
Underground leaks are complex and require professional detection and repair. Our skilled plumbers at Ballard Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning use specialized equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak without unnecessary digging, saving you time and money on repairs and yard restoration.
Proactive steps to reduce your water bill
Even if nothing is broken, you may still be looking for ways to keep your water bill from flooding your bank account. Beyond fixing leaks, here are some ways to keep your water usage in check:
- Smart landscaping: Consider drought-tolerant plants. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation. Use mulch to retain soil moisture. Consider a smart irrigation controller that adjusts based on weather.
- High-efficiency appliances: When it’s time to replace your toilet, washing machine, or dishwasher, opt for high efficiency models.
- Shorter showers: Even a minute or two less can save significant water over time.
- Full loads: Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they are full.
Don’t let your water bill drown you!
A high water bill in July isn’t just about the money; it’s also about wasted resources. If you suspect a hidden leak or are simply looking for ways to make your home more water-efficient, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ballard Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced plumbers are here to help San Bernardino homeowners diagnose problems, make lasting repairs, and offer advice on conserving water. Let us help you keep your utility bills in check and ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly. Call us today at 909-297-1914 to schedule an inspection, or schedule an appointment online. Save your money – and don’t waste water – this summer with Ballard Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning.
