How do you read a water meter?

Reading a water meter is straightforward when done carefully.

For outdoor meters, start by lifting the chamber lid with a flat-headed screwdriver or your hands if it’s light. Many outdoor meters have a polystyrene or foam disc beneath the lid to protect them from frost; remove this temporarily to access the meter face. Indoor meters usually do not have an external cover, so the face is visible. Some smart meters have a small antenna to improve signal; if it blocks your view, gently move it aside and replace it afterward.

Check the serial number on the meter against the number on your bill to make sure you are reading the correct meter. Serial numbers may include letters, numbers, hyphens, or slashes and are usually at the top of the meter case.

When taking the reading, focus on the black numbers, which show cubic metres of water used. Red numbers or dials indicate litres and are not needed when submitting a reading. For digital meters, record only the numbers before the decimal point.

After noting the reading, replace any covers or plugs to protect the meter from frost and debris. If your reading seems unusually high, this may indicate a leak, and you should check your pipes. You can record your reading by writing it down or taking a photo, and then submit it online to keep your account up to date. If the meter is hard to access or cannot be read safely, contact your water company; they can assist or, if necessary, help relocate the meter.

As smart meters are installed, households are likely to be supported to read their meters more easily through in-home devices or portals, with more regular readings.