This is the most common “detective” question. If your usage hasn’t changed, a high bill usually indicates a silent leak. The most frequent culprit is a leaking toilet flapper, followed by pinhole leaks in pipes or a malfunctioning irrigation system.

Most people want to know if they can DIY this. Usually, a drip is caused by a worn-out washer, O-ring, or cartridge inside the handle. Replacing these small rubber or plastic parts typically stops the leak and saves hundreds of gallons of water per year.

There is a lot of misinformation here. As a general rule:

• NO: Fats/oils, pasta, rice, coffee grounds, or fibrous veggies (like celery).

• YES: Cold water (always run it while grinding) and small food scraps.

This is a “Water Quality” category favorite. It usually indicates the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. This can happen due to bacteria in your water heater’s anode rod or issues with the local water supply/well.

If your shower feels more like a drizzle, you might have a failing Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV), mineral buildup in the fixture, or a leak in the main line.

Homeowners ask this to weigh the upfront cost ($$$) against the benefits.

• Pros: Endless hot water, space-saving, lower monthly energy bills.

• Cons: Higher installation cost and may require gas line or electrical upgrades.

If you hear your toilet “ghost flushing” at night, the flapper is likely not sealing correctly, or the fill valve is set too high, causing water to pour into the overflow tube.

A seasonal favorite. The best methods include:

• Insulating exposed pipes in attics or crawlspaces.

• Letting faucets drip slightly during extreme freezes.

• Keeping the home thermostat set no lower than 13°C (55°F).

Short answer: Yes. Most plumbers advise against “liquid gold” cleaners. They are caustic and can generate heat that softens PVC pipes or corrodes older metal pipes. Hydro-jetting or manual snaking is a much safer, long-term solution.

For a standard residential home, an annual plumbing audit is recommended. This allows a technician to check water pressure (which protects your appliances), test shut-off valves, and catch small leaks before they cause structural damage.