View Full Version : If only the water mains is on and no water being used. should meter count units?
reed81
Nov 21, 2013, 04:14 AM
My water meter is counting units when all that is on is the water mains itself. No water is being used elsewhere in on the property, yet my meter is counting units. The water meter is working as I have switched off Water Mains (for 4hrs) and meter does not change. Does this mean there is a leak somewhere?
massplumber2008
Nov 21, 2013, 05:34 AM
Hi Reed
It certainly looks like there is a leaker somewhere... ;)
Start by testing all the toilets (use dye tablets or food coloring in the tanks and see if color shows up in toilet bowls).
If that does not show the leaker then shut the cold water supply going into the water heater(s) and check the meter again. If the meter has stopped counting then there is a leak in a hot water pipe... probably underground (ugh).
Finally, look for any pipe going into the ground and see if they can be isolated by a shutoff... check meter again, etc...
Start there.
Mark
speedball1
Nov 21, 2013, 07:46 AM
I would start by shutting off the house. Shut off to see if the leak is between the meter and the house. Then follow the instructions given to you by Mark. Let us know how you make out. Good luck, Tom