The water meter can help detect large leaks or a combination of small leaks, but cannot tell where the leak is coming from. Most residential meters are located at the front property line near the sidewalk or street. Contact customer service for more information or help to locate the water meter. Some meter boxes may contain multiple meters. Verify the meter number on the cap of the meter with the meter number on the water bill.

Performing a Leak Check Includes the Following Procedures

Make sure no water is used while checking the leak indicator (shown above) on the meter. If the triangle is moving, and no water is being used, there is a leak. Turn off the outside house valve to determine if the leak is inside or outside the property. The house valve is usually found below your hose spigot.

Once the house valve is turned off, check the leak indicator again. If the leak indicator has stopped spinning, the leak is inside the house or in the pipes under the home.

Common Source of Leaks

Check for toilets that run. To check a toilet for leaks, place a few drops of food coloring in the tank of the toilet. If after one hour the dye shows up in the bowl without flushing, the ball and flapper need to be replaced.

Next check for leaky faucets usually found in the bathroom sink and bath faucets. One drop of water per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year! Replacing the rubber "0"-ring or washer inside the valve can usually repair a dripping faucet.

If the leak indicator is still moving after the house valve is off, the leak is outside between the meter and the house. This type of leak is harder to locate and may require the assistance of a plumber.

Need Water Off to Do a Repair

To schedule a temporary disconnection of water service, call the Department of Environmental & Engineering Services (DEES) at (954) 972-0828. There is a $10 service charge to shut water off and $10 service charge to restore service.