Did you know that your water meter can detect leaks in your home’s plumbing? It’s true! Continue reading to learn how to read a water meter for water leaks, and who to call for trusted Indianapolis water leak repair at an affordable price.

Water Meter Basics

Your water meter is a device set up and regulated by the city that measures and records the amount of water your home uses in a given time period, all for the purpose of billing. It is generally located on the outside of your home, typically near your gas and electricity meter, which are used in the same way by the city. Although your utility company is in charge of supervising and tending to your water meter, it is helpful to learn how to read it yourself, and even more helpful to check it every so often to ensure your residence is leak-free.

Here is how to check a water meter for plumbing leaks:

Step 1: Turn Off Your Water
Find your main water shut-off valve and close it so that your home does not have any running water activity while you check your readings.

Step 2: Check the Flow Indicator
The flow indicator is a small rotating wheel that detects water movement and flow. Open the cover of the water meter to find it.

Step 3: Detect Movement or No Movement
Is the flow indicator wheel moving? If so, you might have a water leak somewhere in your property. If it’s not moving, your home is likely leak-free.

No Flow Indicator?

If there is not a flow indicator on your water meter, simply grab a pen and paper, write down the numbers that you see on the meter and the number on the hand of the larger rotary dial. Wait one hour and then check the numbers again for any changes. If you see changes, you could have a leak. Either way, regardless of your findings, you need to call a licensed plumber for help.

But Take a Plumber’s Word For It

Although a water meter can indicate a plumbing leak, sometimes, it is actually due to a faulty water meter. For this reason, it is vital that you contact an Indianapolis plumber for help diagnosing a water leak. Water leaks can lead to a vast amount of costly damage and destruction, so never wait around to take action. Read our blog, “Important Warnings Regarding Residential Slab Leaks” to understand the importance of routine water leak inspections and maintenance.

Indianapolis Plumbing Service and Repair

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free plumbing advice. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services; and as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Request a free estimate, today.