A Comprehensive Guide to Monitoring Your Water Meter: Tips and Benefits

Are you considering having your water company check your water meter more frequently due to drought conditions? While this might seem like a good idea to ensure you don’t have any leaks, it could end up costing you more in the long run. Instead, a more practical and cost-effective solution lies in monitoring your own meter. Let’s explore why this method is more beneficial and how you can do it effectively.

The Cost of Increased Meter Checks

Water companies are responsible for reading and maintaining the meters that track water usage. Regular checks are typically done once a month, but some areas may require more frequent readings, especially during droughts. However, if the water company was to increase these checks, it would involve additional labor costs. These costs would have to be passed on to consumers through higher water bills. Hence, while the intention is noble, the reality is that this approach might not be the most financially sound.

Self-Monitoring: A Practical Solution

A better alternative is for you, the homeowner, to take responsibility for monitoring your own meter. This is a straightforward and cost-effective approach that can help you save money in the long term. Water meters are easily accessible and fairly simple to read. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Understanding Your Water Meter

Most water meters are designed to be user-friendly. They usually have a display showing the volume of water used, often in hundred cubic feet (CCF) or thousand gallons. The digits on the meter can change colors, typically from black on white to white on black. It’s essential to note down the digits correctly to ensure accurate readings.

To check your meter:

Locate your water meter. It is usually located near the curb in front of your home or in your basement, depending on your location. Open the meter box and locate the meter. The meter should have a digital display or pointer indicating the amount of water used. Write down all the digits carefully, paying attention to the decimal place, as it can be crucial for accurate readings. Record the reading and keep a log of your water usage over time. This will help you track any unusual changes.

Regular Monitoring and Leak Detection

Regularly checking your water meter can help you identify leaks early on. Leaks can be costly, especially during drought conditions when water usage fees can skyrocket. By monitoring your meter regularly, you can catch any unusual changes in your water usage and take steps to address the issue.

Here are the steps to follow for regular checks:

Take note of your current meter reading and record it. Compare your meter reading with your water bill to ensure they match. Look for any sudden spikes or dips in water usage. These could indicate a leak. If you suspect a leak, perform a leak test by turning off all water sources in your home and checking the meter. If the meter continues to run, you likely have a leak and need to address it.

Water Company’s Responsibility

It’s important to remember that the water company’s responsibility primarily ends at the meter. They are responsible for maintaining the main water lines and mains, but once the water enters your property, it becomes your responsibility. Therefore, if you suspect a leak on your side, you will need to address it to avoid higher water bills.

Conclusion

Monitoring your own water meter is a practical and cost-effective way to ensure you don’t waste water and can catch any leaks early. It’s easy to do and doesn’t require any specialized knowledge. By taking proactive steps to monitor your water usage, you can save money and help conserve a valuable resource during times of drought.