Water Meter
A water meter is a mechanical or electronic device that measures the volume of water flowing into a property from the municipal supply. Water utilities use the reading to calculate your bill. The meter is owned and maintained by the utility — typically installed at the property line in a curb box, at the foundation wall, or in a basement utility area.
How to read a water meter
Most residential meters show a row of digits (like an odometer) that counts cumulative volume in cubic feet or gallons. Some have a sweep hand for fractions. Digital (radio-read) meters transmit readings wirelessly to utility trucks. To find current consumption, record today's reading and subtract the last billing reading. Multiply cubic feet by 7.48 to convert to gallons.
Using the meter to detect leaks
Turn off all water in the house (including ice makers and irrigation). Watch the meter's flow indicator — usually a small red triangle, star, or sweep hand. If it moves while everything is off, water is flowing somewhere: a running toilet, a dripping faucet, or a slab leak. For a definitive leak test:
- Record the meter reading.
- Use no water for 30–60 minutes.
- Check the reading again. Any increase = active leak.
Common meter locations
- Curb box: a cast-iron lid in the sidewalk or yard. The meter inside is owned by the utility; a secondary shutoff here is operated with a special T-bar key.
- Interior (basement or utility room): common in northern states where curb boxes would freeze. The main shutoff valve is usually just past this meter.
- Outside wall-mounted box: common in warm-climate states.
High water bill investigation
If your bill spikes unexpectedly, the meter is your first diagnostic tool. A running toilet can waste 200 gallons per day; a dripping faucet 10–30 gallons. Read the meter at night before bed and again first thing in the morning — any usage while the house is asleep points to a silent leak or a malfunctioning appliance.