Detect a water leak
Determine if you have a leak
- Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances
- Locate your water meter and lift the cover to see the meter dial
- If the needle is moving, you have a leak
- If the needle appears to be still, record the meter reading or mark the needle position with a pencil or piece of tape
- Keep the water off. Wait at least 15-30 minutes
- Reread the meter gauge or check the needle location again. If the needle has moved, you could possibly have a leak somewhere in your system
- If you have a leak, contact a plumber or leak detection agency to find the source
Determine if your leak is inside or outside your house
- Shut off the main water valve to the inside of your house
- Return to the water meter and lift the cover to see the meter dial
- If the needle appears to be still, record the meter reading or mark the needle position with a pencil or piece of tape
- Keep your water off and wait at least 15-30 minutes
- If the needle has moved and the water is shut off to the house, you have a leak somewhere outside of the house
- If the meter has not moved and the water to the house is shut off, your leak is somewhere inside the house
[]