Read the meter
Find the meter near the main shut-off. Note the reading or watch the low-flow indicator.
The test
- Turn off all water use.
- Note the reading.
- Wait an hour.
- Read again. Any change means a leak.
Narrow it down
Close toilet stop valves and repeat. If it stops, a toilet is leaking.
Ice makers and softeners can use water; account for them.
Help
See leak detection.
Common hidden leaks
- Toilet flappers
- Dripping faucets
- Water softener regeneration stuck
- Leaking hose bib inside the wall
- Underground service line
- Humidifier lines
When the meter keeps moving
If all fixtures are off and toilets closed and the dial keeps creeping, look to the walls, the slab or the buried service. A plumber can use acoustic and thermal tools to locate it. Our leak detection service explains.
Your bill
Compare water bills over time. A sudden jump without a change in habits is a sign. The City of Vaughan bills water based on meter readings.
When to put the tools down
Some of this is homeowner work and some is not. Stop and phone us if you see any of these:
- Water meter dial moves with every tap off
- Pressure drops when two fixtures run
- Green crust on copper joints
- Banging when a valve closes quickly
- Anything involving the gas line, the venting or cutting into a wall
Quick answers
Where is the low-flow indicator?
Look for a tiny spinning wheel or star shape on the register; it turns with any flow.
How small a leak can the meter show?
The low-flow indicator spins with even a slow drip, which is why it is the best place to start.
Should I test overnight?
An overnight reading with no water use is a good way to catch small leaks, if everyone remembers not to run anything.