Water Leaks
Water Meter Boxes
Uncovered water meter boxes or water meter lids that are improperly placed are potentially dangerous hazards. After you are done viewing your water meter, be sure to properly replace the water meter lid immediately. The lid should not be able to move and it should be safe to walk across. Never leave the water meter uncovered without proper supervision, and do not leave it uncovered for longer than is necessary.
If the lid is damaged or improperly fits the box, please notify the Maintenance Division at 530-841-2370.
What Causes Leaks
Water leaks are frequently caused by running or leaking toilets, deteriorated pipes, loose, ill fitting, or broken pipe fittings,
How to Tell if You Have a Leak
Sometimes it is easy to tell if you have a water leak. For example, when water is pooling on the property, or you can see water dripping or spraying out of a pipe on your property. Other times the leaks are relatively small, or the water drains off your property before you notice it pooling. Even small leaks can dramatically increase your water bill. To find out if you have a leak, use the following methods.
Method 1
Turn off all water faucets, taps or other fixtures that use water inside and outside your home. Record the meter's current reading and return in two to three hours to see if there is a change. If the meter reading has changed, you may have a leak.
Method 2
Many meters have a small red (or blue) triangle or star shape on the meter face. This is for tracking low flow through the meter. If it is moving when you have all water off inside and outside your home, you may have a leak.
Where is My Water Meter
Your water meter is typically located in front of your property next the street curb or sometimes in an alley behind your home. The water meter will be inside a water meter box that is labeled, and typically has a metal cover.
How Do I Read My Water Meter
If water is being used, the sweep hand (most likely red) or the low flow indicator will most likely be moving. You can also tell when water has been used by reading the register (looks like a mileage odometer on a car). The register indicates the number of gallons that have been used.
How to Locate a Leak
If your property has a shutoff valve adjacent to the house or building itself, turn this valve off, record the water meter reading, and wait 2 to 3 hours. If the meter reading changes, then your water leak is most likely between the house and the meter. If the meter reading does not change, your leak is most likely in the house, yard, or irrigation system.
Leaking toilets are frequently the cause of water leaks and consequently high water bills. To check to see if your toilet is leaking, add food dye or some other dying agent to the toilet tank. Wait 15 to 30 minutes, or longer, and make sure nobody uses the toilet. After waiting, check the toilet bowl, and if there is any dye coloring in the bowl, you may have a leak.