Watch: 5 things you should to do when you get a high water bill

HIGH water bills can be a significant source of stress in South Africa, particularly with water scarcity and the rising cost of water becoming more prevalent.

A local plumber, Sipho Phungula, says factors like leaks, inaccurate meter readings, and rising water tariffs can all contribute to high water bills and associated financial strain. Phungula also shares five tips that can be used by a home-owner to reduce high water bills.

ALSO read: Everything you need to know about rainwater harvesting

The plumber advises: “Hidden leaks in the pipes, taps, or toilet can waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher bills. Misreads or faulty meters can result in inaccurate billing, potentially overcharging consumers. Higher water consumption, whether due to larger families, more appliances, or increased irrigation, can directly translate to higher water bills.”

Phungula urges consumers to fix water leaks promptly or if they are outside of the property, report them to the municipality for prompt repair.

Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality is urging its consumers with high water bills to do a meter reading and check if they have leaks. Municipality shares four steps on how to do a meter reading and check water leaks:

Step 1: Check meter reading.

Step 2: Turn off all taps and do not flush the toilet.

Step 3: Wait for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Check meter reading again: If the reading has changed then water has passed through your meter and you have a leak.

@caxtonlocalmedia 💧 Worried about sky-high water bills? You’re not alone. A local plumber shares the top causes of unexpectedly high water charges, from hidden leaks to misread meters, and offers 5 practical tips to help homeowners save. ##caxtondurban #savewater ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia

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