Meter the Meter

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

Your water meter can help you identify leaks.

Did you know that your water meter can help identify hidden leaks at home?

While some plumbing leaks are obvious, others aren't and can cause extensive damage in your home. Most pipes are behind drywall, which is pleasing to the eye but not conducive to catching leaks.

These hidden issues within our pipes can be the result of many different problems, from sediment buildup to acidic water, but are more commonly the result of wear and tear due to old age. If leaks go unnoticed for an extended period of time they can lead to an unstable structure, or worse, mold.

But you can use your meter to help find hidden leaks and avoid potential damage.

Follow These Steps

1. Don't use any water for at least 20 minutes, and then check the leak indicator on your meter. If the indicator is moving - you possibly have a leak.
2. Write down the numbers from the meter and then go an additional hour without using any water in your home. Check the meter again and if the numbers have changed then it is highly likely you have a leak.
3. You can narrow down the location or your leak by shutting the water completely off and then rechecking the meter. If the indicator stopped moving once the water is off - that means the leak is happening inside your home. If it continues to move then the leak is outside.
4. Call a plumber to help uncover the exact location and fix the leak. 
5. Then, call SERVPRO of Park Cities at 214-522-3000 to help clean up any damage from the leak.