How to Conserve Water by Detecting Leaks and Usage

Learning to read your water meter serves two purposes: Leak detection and usage control.

Your water meter should be located curbside at the front of your property. It is normally concealed under a rectangular, cement slab, which has a smaller center that must be removed. Lift the round or triangular metal cap to reveal your meter.

Most meters have a dial similar to a car odometer.

The meter measures water in cubic feet and 1 cubic foot is equivalent to 7.48 gallons.

1. When reading your meter, be sure that all faucets and water consuming appliances are turned off, including icemakers in refrigerators.

2. Write down the numbers on your meter, including the last two digits, note the time.

3. Re-read your meter in one to two hours. If the reading has changed, you may have a leak.

To control usage, perform step No. 2, then run your irrigation system. As soon as the system shuts off, re-read your meter to determine landscape water usage. Adjust your sprinkler system accordingly for water conservation or consider making landscape modification to reduce water usage.

If a leak is detected RMWD recommends contacting a plumber.