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How to Read Your Meter

Ever wonder how much water you and your family use per day or week?

Monitoring your meter is an excellent way to track your water usage and check for water leaks.

Water meters record the amount of water each customer uses almost the same way as an odometer measures the mileage a car travels. Here are a few simple steps to help you monitor water use like a pro.

Step 1: Locate Your Water Meter

Step 1: Locate Your Water Meter

Most water meters are located at the front of the property, but some are at the property’s rear. Your meter should be in either a cement or plastic box with a metal or plastic lid. For safety, use a tool, such as a large screwdriver to remove the cover. Visually examine the area around the meter to ensure your safety. Creatures, such as black widow spiders or gophers, are known to nest in meter boxes. Once you remove the lid, you may need to wipe off the meter’s glass cover with a wet paper towel.

Step 2: Read Your Meter

Step 2: Read Your Meter

Reading your meter is easy. Meters usually have 6 to 8 digit numbers on the face, which reflect the total number of gallons (or cubic feet) used since the meter was installed. When reading your meter, simply write down all numbers shown. Carefully replace the meter box cover when done reading.

Step 3: Calculate Your Water Usage

Step 3: Calculate Your Water Usage

To figure your water use, first pick a starting point to read your meter (e.g., Friday at 9 a.m.). Second, record the reading and the date. A day (or a week, a month) later, reread your meter. Subtract the first reading from the second to find out how much water you used in that given period. Here is an example:

Second Reading0076400
First Reading0083300
Water Used6900

Safeguard yourself from leaks to conserve water and possibly save money on your bill. The “flow indicator” dials rotate when water flow is moving through your meter. These dials move even when there is low water flow. To check for leaks, turn off all water uses inside and outside your home, remembering to include icemakers, evaporative coolers, and water softeners. Once the water is off, your Low Flow Indicator should not move. If it’s moving, you have a leak.

Step 4: Check for Leaks

Step 4: Check for Leaks

Safeguard yourself from leaks to conserve water and possibly save money on your bill. The “flow indicator” dials rotate when water flow is moving through your meter. These dials move even when there is low water flow. To check for leaks, turn off all water uses inside and outside your home, remembering to include ice makers, evaporative coolers, and water softeners. Once the water is off, your Low Flow Indicator should not move. If it’s moving, you have a leak.

SouthWest Water Company

SouthWest Water Company owns and operates regulated water and wastewater systems in seven states. More than 500,000 people depend on SouthWest Water for high-quality, reliable service. Learn More…

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