Your water meter is the key tool to help you learn how much water you use and to help identify possible leaks. It’s a good idea to periodically check and record water use so you can identify when you may be approaching your allocated water budget amount.

The wintertime is a great time to become familiar with your water meter so that as you head into spring and summer months when outdoor water use increases, you are ahead of the game when it comes to tracking your water use.

Where is my water meter located?
Your water meter is located in your basement or garage. A few water meters are located in a meter pit in the front yard.

How often should I read my meter?
The frequency of when you read your meter is up to you, the key is to keep it consistent. Reading your meter once a week is a good place to start. Make sure you read your meter the same time of day, and the same day of the week each time. For example, every Saturday morning.

How do I read it?

1. Record the number displayed on your meter, reading left to right
2. Record the date and time you read your water meter.
3. After you take a second reading, subtract the first reading from the second reading. This will give you the total water usage to the nearest ten gallons over the period between the readings.
4. Once you’ve recorded a few weeks of water usage, you will be able to identify if your water use changes and you can evaluate what you are doing differently at home that may be the cause of the change.

Checking for Leaks
A leak detector is located on your water meter. Checking for leaks should only be performed when there is no water in use inside and outside your home. There are two types of water meters used in Highlands Ranch, an E-series meter and a Badger meter. An E-series meter has a digital display. If a leak is detected, a faucet icon with a drop will appear on the display. Badger meters are round and have a red sundial on the display. If the red sundial is spinning, that indicates a leak.