A sudden spike in your New Jersey water bill caused by increased seasonal demands like landscaping or pool maintenance. However, if your habits haven’t changed, that high bill could be a warning sign of a hidden plumbing leak.
In the Garden State, summer water usage can double or even triple. While much of this is expected, it’s important to distinguish between “seasonal use” and “system waste.” If your bill is rising but your grass isn’t getting greener, you may be paying for water that is literally going down the drain.
4 Common Reasons Your Water Bill Spikes in Summer
Identifying the source of your high water usage early can save you hundreds of dollars in utility costs and potential property damage.
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Lawn and Garden Irrigation: This is the most common culprit. A standard sprinkler system can use more water in one afternoon than your entire family uses indoors in a week.
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Pool Evaporation and Refilling: The New Jersey summer heat causes significant evaporation. Constantly “topping off” a pool can add thousands of gallons to your monthly statement.
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Silent Toilet Leaks: A toilet that “runs” intermittently is a financial drain. Even a small leak can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, often without making a sound.
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Subterranean Pipe Leaks: The most serious cause is a leak you can’t see. Cracked main water lines or sewer pipes can leak constantly, causing bills to skyrocket even if you aren’t using a drop of water inside.
When to Call a Plumbing Professional in NJ
If you’ve checked your faucets and toilets but your bill remains high, it’s time for a professional diagnostic. Ignoring a high water bill doesn’t just cost you money; it can lead to foundation damage or sinkholes.
Look for these “red flag” symptoms:
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Unexplained damp or “spongy” patches in your yard.
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A noticeable drop in water pressure throughout the house.
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Slow-moving drains or gurgling sounds in your pipes.
At Drainiacs Plumbing and Heating, we use non-invasive technology to find the problem fast. Our Video Drain Inspection allows us to see exactly what’s happening underground without digging up your landscape.
Pro Tip: To confirm a leak, check your water meter, wait two hours without using any water, and check it again. According to the EPA’s WaterSense guide, if the meter has moved, you definitely have a leak.
Average Cost of Leak Detection and Inspection in New Jersey
Transparency is key to a stress-free repair. While prices vary based on your location and the complexity of your plumbing, here are the local NJ averages:
| Service Type | Estimated Local Cost |
| Standard Diagnostic Call | $85 – $150 |
| Video Pipe/Sewer Inspection | $250 – $500 |
| Emergency Leak Repair | Varies by Scope |
Don’t let a hidden leak wash away your summer budget. If you are a homeowner or business owner in NJ, contact Drainiacs Plumbing and Heating today at +1973-303-6858 to schedule a professional inspection.
