The most common cause of increased water usage is a "LEAKING" toilet.  A leaking toilet occurs when water unintentionally escapes causing the water to"run" inside the tank, meaning it drains and refills.

Almost all toilet issues go unnoticed because they either: 

• Run intermittently - they cycle "on" and "off".
• Run briefly after the toilet is flushed.
• Run consistently at low-flow.

As such, they are typically NOT seen or heard and therefore overlooked until the usage is billed. Running toilets don't just stop - they get worse as time passes. 

The best way to check for an issue is to flush the toilet, let the water refill in the bowl, then add 5-10 drops of *food coloring into the tank. Wait approximately 15- 30 minutes and check for colored water in the bowl and around the toilet, which would indicate an issue within the toilet. 

*No food coloring?  MVD provides leak detection tabs, at no cost, that can be picked up at our office.

A faucet that leaks one drop per second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year. Examine faucet gaskets and pipe fittings for any water on the outside of the pipe to check for surface leaks. Be sure to check inside & outside the location: 

• Inside - tubs & sinks
• Outside - hoses & spigots

For more information visit: 

• American Water Works Association's® DrinkTap.org "Drip Calculator" 
  This tool provides an estimate of water usage based on the data provided. 

• US EPA Info about Leaks

Culprits include:  

• Water Heaters
• Washing Machines
• Dishwashers
• Ice Makers

Routine inspections & maintenance can help prevent issues.

Culprits include:  

• In-Line Cartridge Filters
• Water Softeners

Internal valves can get stuck in the “open” position which can cause continuous water usage. This could be an intermittent issue or an ongoing issue depending on the valve. 

Below are some questions that can help determine a possible issue with irrigation, faucets, or hoses/soakers. 

• Summer:
  Was a faucet/hose/soaker accidentally left on/running?​
  Are all irrigation heads working properly?
  Has there been any changes to the irrigation timer?
  Have there been any power outages that may have reset the irrigation system/timer?
  Is water surfacing or puddling on the areas where irrigation is located?

• Winter:
  Has the water supply for hoses and/or irrigation been shut off inside, and has it been winterized?
  Is water surfacing or puddling on the areas where irrigation is located?

• Tiered Rates - Water usage over 1,000 cu ft is billed at a higher rate. Click HERE to view the Schedule of Rates.

• Meter Reading Dates - Depending on the prior and current meter reading dates, the bill may cover more days than the previous month's bill.