Run the test
- Stop all water use.No faucets, toilets, dishwasher, washing machine, ice maker or irrigation. Tell everyone in the house.
- Find the meter.It is usually in a box near the curb or sidewalk. Lift the lid carefully; insects and spiders like meter boxes.
- Watch the leak indicator.Many meters have a small triangle or star dial that spins with even tiny flow. Note whether it moves.
- Record the reading.Write down the full reading and the time.
- Wait and re-read.After 30 to 60 minutes, read again. Any change means water is flowing somewhere.
Log sheet
| Test | Start reading and time | End reading and time | Indicator moving? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Everything off | |||
| 2. Toilet stops closed | |||
| 3. Irrigation shutoff closed | |||
| 4. Water heater cold supply closed | |||
| 5. House main closed |
Reading the results
- IfFlow stops when toilet stops are closedA toilet is leaking internally, often a worn flapper or fill valve.
- IfFlow stops when irrigation is closedThe leak is in the sprinkler system or a valve.
- IfFlow stops when the water heater supply is closedThe leak may be on the hot side, including a hot-side slab leak.
- IfFlow stops only when the house main is closedThe leak is inside the house, possibly in a wall or under the slab.
- IfFlow continues with the house main closedThe leak is likely in the service line between the meter and the house.
Good to know
- Who owns the meter
- Your water provider, shown on your bill
- Leak at or before the meter
- Contact the provider
- Leak after the meter
- A licensed plumber
- Best time to test
- When the house will be quiet for an hour
Bring the log to the plumber
A completed log saves time and can save money. Telling a plumber that the meter stops with the house main closed but keeps moving with only the water heater supply closed points straight toward the hot side inside the house.
Leak detection equipment is still needed to find the exact spot, but your log tells them where to start. Keep a copy with your symptom log and invoices.
Common questions
- My meter has no leak indicator. What do I do?
- Use the full reading over a longer wait, such as two hours, and look for any change in the last digit.
- Is a small leak worth fixing?
- Yes. Small leaks add up on the bill and, if under a slab or in a wall, can cause hidden damage.
- Can I open the meter box?
- Reading the meter is generally fine. Do not tamper with the meter itself.
General information for Brea, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.