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Why & How to Read a Water Meter

Why do I need to read my water meter

Water meters are essential devices that measure the quantity or volume of water passing through the pipes within your system. This way, you get a clear idea of how much water you’re using on a regular basis. However, you do need to protect your water meter in Watertown with one of advanced meter pits by Ford or another reputable manufacturer to ensure precise reading. After that, it’s all about learning why and how to properly read your meter.

Why do I need to read my water meter?

Reading your water meter is not a chore, but rather an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the different aspects that affect your company’s water consumption on a daily basis. Let’s take a look at some of the most important reasons to monitor your water meter as regularly as possible:

  • Water loss prevention: First and foremost, a water meter is an essential tool in pinpointing any existing leaks. If you notice spiking water consumption without any changes in your daily habits and processes, there’s probably a leak hidden somewhere in the system.
  • Understanding bills: Another important aspect of why water meters are important is that they give you an insight into how much you’re paying for water and why.
  • Understanding your water consumption: Finally, a water meter helps you keep track of your water usage and understand how much water your property is using during different times of the day and week.

How do I read my water meter?

In order to gather all the information that will help you prevent water loss, understand your water bills better, and determine your consumption, you have to know how to properly read your meter. Here are several important steps that will help you accurately read your water meter and determine your exact consumption:

Locating the water meter box

First, you need to locate your water meter before you can read it. The majority of meters are in a metal box with a plastic or metal lid that clearly states “water” or “water meter”. Some lids have a handle or an indentation for opening them, while you need to gently pry open others with a screwdriver or a similar tool. Also, remember to wear protective gloves, just in case.

Identifying water meter type

Once you’ve located the meter you have to identify whether it’s an analogue or a digital meter. Most digital meters require a light source in order to read the numbers on it. The numbers you see on the meter are either gallons or cubic feet.

Analogue meters, on the other hand, feature a sweep hand that’s usually red, measuring the consumption of water in your property. Once the sweep hand moves from one number to another one, that’s the amount of water that passed through the meter.

Testing for a leak

Finally, if you wish to test your water system for any leaks, you can do so with the help of your water meter. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Turn off every outdoor and indoor water appliance, including irrigation spigots and icemakers.
  • Remember the two numbers present on the meter, one for flow rate and the other for meter read. These numbers tell you of the amount of water consumed and the amount of current water flow.
  • After you’ve turned off your water, record the numbers you’ve read.
  • Take about 20 minutes before going back to your water meter and taking another read. If there’s water consumption even after you’ve turned your water and all appliances off, there’s probably a leak.

Where can I buy advanced Ford meter pits in Watertown and the area?

Ford water meter pits in WatertownKnowing why you need to read your water meter and how to properly read it is only one of the important aspects of these devices you should pay attention to. Don’t forget to explore all the benefits of adequately using your water meter to understand why they’re essential, and also look into the advantages you can gain if you upgrade your metering infrastructure and see what the most modern trends in water meters are to know what to look for.

If you need to replace or upgrade your water metering capabilities, Blair Supply is the company you can rely on. We offer the most advanced water meters available on the market, as well as suitable water meters pits to use with them. We distribute our products nationwide from our warehouses in Avoca, Rochester, and Watertown. Tell us what kind of equipment you need and we’ll take care of everything else. Give us a call today!


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