Guide · 3 steps · ~2 min read
High bill — but no leak?
When the meter is quiet, interrogate rates, sewer, and outdoor schedules.
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Step 1
Confirm the leak screen really passed
Overnight no-use + toilets. “I don’t hear dripping” is not a test.
Meter test -
Step 2
Compare units and rates MoM
Flat use + higher $ → rate/fee/sewer story. Higher use + clean indoor tests → outdoor or occupancy.
Compare bills -
Step 3
Interrogate irrigation timing
Outdoor can be 30%+ of household use nationally and much higher in dry climates. Clock-based controllers waste water; weather-based / WaterSense controllers can cut irrigation sharply.
Irrigation timer spike
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Educational estimates, not professional advice. Sources linked below.
Related diagnosis guides
Keep one primary page per question. These siblings cover the rest of the high-intent set.
Why is my water bill so high?
National diagnosis: usage vs rates vs sewer vs silent leaks.
Silent toilet leak cost
Dye-test, size the waste, fix the flapper before upgrading.
Sprinkler / irrigation timer spike
Stuck schedules and broken heads before indoor gadgets.
Compare bills month over month
Units per day — not dollars — when the total lies.