What is a Water Meter?
A water meter is a measuring device that tracks the volume of water delivered to your property. UMS currently has water meters that measure in cubic feet and/or gallons. You can find this information on your water bill.
Our water meters are located near the curb, sidewalk or in an easement at the back of your property inside a meter box. The water meter box will be plastic or cement and have a metal or plastic lid which may be marked, “Water Meter.”
Use a long screwdriver to remove the lid. Be sure to be cautious as insect or other small animals occasionally take residence inside the boxes. Most water meters will have a small, hinged plastic cover while others may not. Lift the cover and use a cloth to wipe the face clean.
Types of Water Meters?
UMS currently manages analog and AMI/AMR water meters.
An analog meter will appear as a large circular dial that may have one or more moving hands. Keep in mind that you will be held liable for any repairs or assessments if the meter is damaged.
Once you determine the meter type, you can follow the steps in “How to read my meter” below to record and track your usage.
Track your Water Usage
Verify that all water use is suspended and write down the reading as it appears from left to right. You can refer back to this number later when verifying your daily, weekly, or monthly usage. A record of past reading can also come in handy for detecting potential leaks at your residence.
The sweeping arm on your meter functions as a leak detector as well as the triangle. If you can see either dial turning when all water is shut off, you have a leak!
Wait 20 minutes and check back for a second look. If the reading has increased that indicates water is going through the meter.
If leak is continuous contact a plumber.