What’s That Leak Costing You?
A licensed plumber’s calculator — see the gallons and the dollars your leak wastes per year, and the cheap fix.
Figures scale from EPA WaterSense estimates (1 drip/sec faucet ≈ 3,150 gal/yr; 10 drips/min showerhead ≈ 500 gal/yr; a running toilet up to 200 gal/day). Your dollar cost uses the rate you enter and is a planning estimate, not a bill. As an Amazon Associate, Plumbing Picks may earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.
Leaks & your water bill — quick answers
How much water does a leaky toilet waste?
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons a day — that’s roughly 6,000 gallons a month, often $30–$70 on your bill. It’s the most common hidden cause of a high water bill, and usually a $10–$15 flapper fixes it.
How much does a dripping faucet cost per year?
The EPA estimates a faucet dripping once per second wastes more than 3,000 gallons a year. At a typical water-and-sewer rate that’s $30–$60 a year per faucet — more if it drips faster. A washer or cartridge kit is a few dollars.
How do I find a hidden leak?
Check your water meter, then don’t use any water for two hours and check it again — if it moved, water is leaving somewhere. For toilets, drop food coloring in the tank and wait 10 minutes; color in the bowl means a leaking flapper.
Fix the 12 Most Common Plumbing Problems Yourself — Free Plumber’s Handbook
Step-by-step fixes for the 12 most common problems — and exactly when to call a pro. Free and instant, from a licensed plumber. Save hundreds on calls you didn’t need.
Curious how the national numbers stack up? See our 2026 Home Water Waste & Cost Report — what household leaks actually cost, with EPA data and a 5-minute leak check.