Learning how to read the water meter can help you detect a leak instantly.
The water meter tells you how much water you are using each month. You can monitor the meter yourself to check for leaks in your water system.
Use the Meter to Find Leaks
When water is not being used, nothing on the meter should be moving.
Step 1
Turn off all inside and outside water faucets.
Step 2
Check the meter. Watch for 10 minutes. If the fine flow indicator moves clockwise, then leaks exist on your property and need to be located. In some cases, it may move back and forth slightly as water pressure in the street fluctuates. Check the main meter reading (numbers) and come back an hour later after you know no water has been used. If there is a higher reading, there is a leak.
Step 3
Locate the source of the leaks.
Locating the Water Meter
Water meters are located underground beneath a round or oval lid. The meter may be found in a variety of locations. The most common place is between the hose bib (faucet) at the front of your house in a direct line to the street. If the house is on a corner lot, the meter could be on the side of the house. Alley locations are common in certain parts of the city as well. Remember, this is South Texas so watch for spiders and ants when opening the lid.