METER READING
This diagram shows a typical meter head. We encourage everyone to locate their meter and check for leaks at least once a month. If you have trouble locating your meter or have any questions please call the District office.
(A) This triangle (a star on other meters) is called a leak detector. The smallest flow through the meter will cause this to turn. If all water is shut off in the house and the triangle is turning, this indicates a leak. To check for leaks, if your meter does not have a leak detector, note the reading of the meter when you leave at a time no one will be home. When you return re-read the meter. The number should be the same.
(B) These are tenths of a cubic foot.
(C) Sweep hand: One revolution equals one cubic foot of water used.
(D) These numbers are read from right to left. The first number to the right is one cubic foot, the second number is ten cubic feet. The next three are one hundred, one thousand, and ten thousand cubic feet. These three are the numbers that are printed on your bill. 100 cu/ft = 748 gallons.
LEAKS
Most leaks occur in the toilets. Toilet tank leaks typically result from worn parts or misalignment of some part of the flushing mechanism. Toilets usually leak at the bottom of the tank around the flapper plug or at the top of the tank at the overflow tube. To test the flapper plug, carefully remove the lid from the toilet tank and mark the water level in each toilet tank with a pencil. Shut off the water supply to the toilet. If the water remains on the mark you made for at least 10 minutes, the flapper plug is not leaking. If the water level drops below the mark you made, the flapper plug is leaking and should be replaced. If the water level in the toilet tank is at the top of the overflow tube, the water may run continuously. The float that controls the water level in the tank should be adjusted so that the water level in the tank is at least 1 inch below the top of the tube. The second most common leak is between the meter and the house. If you have galvanized steel or PVC plumbing it is usually best to replace this line. Most repairs can be done by an experienced "do-it-yourselfer." If you are not sure you can handle the job, call a plumber. It is important to stop leaks.
METER ACCESS
Your help in keeping a clear path to and around the water meter will help us control our costs and make for a safer working environment for the people reading and maintaining the water service. The Board of Commissioners has passed a resolution and failure to provide direct access will now result in the following. That a charge of $300.00 will be added to all accounts that do not provide direct access to the meter from the right of way when needed. This charge will also apply to any items that are preventing access to the meter, which includes but is not limited to vehicles and debris. If inaccessibility is during BI-monthly meter reading, water usage shall be estimated according to average historical usage for that billing period.
During the rainy and cloudy months reading meters becomes very difficult. Trees and bushes that hang over the meter block access and limit visibility. Plants located near the meter sometimes cover the meter and make for unsafe conditions. Some of these plants are of great value to the owner and their placement should be reconsidered in case access or trimming is needed. Dense hedges need to have pass through access from the right of way, no longer will the District enter on or around private property.
This policy is also beneficial to the customer, as better access allows quicker shutoff during an emergency situation.
For your information rather than wrestle with pliers or a wrench, plumbing and hardware stores sell T-handle shutoff wrenches for around $10.00.