Detect a Water Leak

Determine If You Have A Leak

If you suspect a water leak, one of the easiest ways to detect leaks is to observe your water meter.

Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances, such as the ice maker, dishwasher and clothes washer.
Locate your water meter (PDF) and lift the cover to see the meter dial.
If the needle is moving, you obviously have a leak.
If the needle appears to be still, record the meter reading or mark the needle position with a pencil or piece of tape.
Keep the water off. Wait at least 15-30 minutes. (Make sure nobody turns on a water-using appliance).
Reread the meter gauge or check the needle location again. If the needle has moved, you could possibly have a leak somewhere in your system.

First, determine you have a leak using the steps outlined above. If you have a leak, follow these steps.

Shut off the main water valve to the inside of your house.
Return to the water meter and lift the cover to see the meter dial.
If the needle appears to be still, record the meter reading or mark the needle position with a pencil or piece of tape.
Keep the water off. Wait at least 15-30 minutes. (Make sure nobody turns on a water-using appliance).
If the needle has moved and the water is shut off to the house, you have a leak somewhere outside of the house.
If the meter has not moved and the water to the house is shut off, your leak is somewhere inside the house.