As the temps drop and the nights grow longer, it’s common to notice an increase on your home heating bills – after all, the more you turn the heat on to warm your home, the more electricity and heating fuel you’ll use. But your water bill should remain relatively the same during the colder months, right? Not necessarily.
It’s common for homeowners to notice a rise in their water bills as the weather cools down. However, understanding the reasons behind these increases can help you reduce consumption and keep your water bill more manageable.
Here are 5 reasons you may notice a higher-than-normal water will this time of year.
1. Increased Hot Water Usage
The drop in outside temperatures makes hot showers and baths much more appealing, and it’s common to see an increase in water usage for heating and personal comfort. Additionally, more indoor activities such as cooking, laundry, and cleaning require water, which can add up over time.
Consider installing water-saving faucets and shower-heads, as well as low-flush toilets. Also, shorten your shower time by just a few minutes to save gallons of water each time you bathe.
2. More Indoor Water Use
In winter, you’re likely spending more time indoors, leading to increased water use for activities like cooking, cleaning, laundry, and washing dishes. Additionally, holiday gatherings and guests can put extra strain on your water usage.
When doing laundry or running the dishwasher, try to always use full loads. This helps maximize the efficiency of these appliances, ensuring you’re not wasting water by running them with only a small load.
3. More Frequent Washing and Cleaning
Winter brings snow, mud, and slush into your home, which means more frequent cleaning. The constant cleaning of coats, boots, and floors to keep things tidy can add to your water usage, particularly if you’re using the washing machine or scrubbing floors regularly.
Always wait to do laundry until you have a full load and use the shortest cycle possible on your washing machine. Consider using a steam mom to clean floors instead of a mop and bucket.
4. Leaks
Even the smallest leaks can contribute to a significant increase in water consumption. If you notice an unexplained increase in water usage (and cost), you may have a hidden water leak.
Check for any signs of leaks in exposed pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures. If you find any issues, repair them promptly to prevent unnecessary water loss.
5. Holiday Gatherings and Guests
Winter holidays often bring extra guests into your home. More people typically means more showers, longer baths, and increased water use for cooking and cleaning. This spike in water consumption can contribute to higher bills, especially if you’re hosting multiple gatherings and overnight guests.
Encourage guests to take shorter showers and avoid leaving the tap running while washing hands or dishes. Also, try to use water-efficient faucets and appliances during meals and clean-up.
When to Call Eagle
While it’s common for your water bill to rise during the colder months due to increased usage, it’s important to locate and repair any leaks promptly to prevent waste and damage to your home and belongings. If you suspect a leak is behind your higher-than-normal water bill, contact Eagle Service Company today.
