Once you know how to read your water meter, it's time to put that knowledge to work for you. Finding and repairing water leaks on your property can save you water, which means you save money on your water and sewer bills. Also, you can figure out how much water various appliances are using.

For leak detection: 

• Turn all water-using appliances off so that no water is being used anywhere in the house.
• Then check the position of the meter dial and wait. If after 15 minutes, the dials haven't moved, you have a relatively water-tight home.
• But, if the dials have moved, start checking hose connections, faucets and the toilets for water leaks.
• If you have everything turned off and are sure the toilets and connections aren't leaking and yet the dials are still turning, you may have a hidden leak in an underground pipe. If you believe this is the case, you may need to call a plumber for assistance.

In addition, the Public Utilities Department offers a free Water Survey Program to water customers who pay their water bills to the City of San Diego. As part of this program, a Water Conservation representative will tour your property to identify leaks and water-saving opportunities.

See Also:

• Checking for Meter Leaks