Flow and Pressure in Water FAQs
Q: How can I manage my water use?
A: If you have a water meter you could start by reading the water meter yourself on a regular basis. You can decide upon the frequency of reading based upon your view of how much water you typically use. If you are using a lot you may wish to read your meter a little more frequently than if you use a little, but do keep in mind that leaks are random events and one could develop at almost any time.
You can use the information that you have on your water bill to show you how much you should be using over a given time period. This will help you assess whether everything is OK. Many people use no water at all at certain times in the day. Meter reading at these times should show no water use and will confirm that no leakage is occurring. Make sure that automatic water using equipment, like washing machines or automatic flushing urinals are not in operation.
Q: What if I have no water meter?
A: Not quite so straight-forward. You might consider having a water meter fitted. Many water companies will fit a meter free-of-charge for their domestic customers. Of course, you will then be paying for your water on a metered basis and if you are not sure whether this is for you then we could fit one for you.
Major water uses sometimes install their own water meters on their pipe work to help them to monitor what is happening in different parts of their systems. If you are considering this we can help with flow measurement, to determine the size of water meter, and the meter fitting. Note that the size of your pipe does not dictate the size of the water meter.
Without a meter any tap or valve can be throttled to generate noise or vibration through the body of the valve. This confirms that water is flowing so if you take to throttling your valves at the dead of night a noise would suggest leakage.
Alternatively you could always call in the experts if you suspect leakage. There are a wide range of techniques and equipment to assist with pinpointing leaks.
