A water meter can move when no water seems to be in use because something is quietly drawing water, such as a cistern refilling or an appliance taking in water. If everything is truly off and it still moves, there may be a leak on your supply pipe or inside the home. A simple test can help you tell which.
Things That Use Water Without You Noticing
Before thinking about leaks, check for normal use that is easy to miss. A toilet cistern refills after flushing, and a washing machine or dishwasher may take in water partway through a cycle. A fridge with an ice maker or water dispenser can also draw water on its own.
Water softeners often run a regeneration cycle, sometimes overnight, which uses water. An outside tap left slightly open, or a hose still connected, can let water trickle away. Someone in another room running a tap or shower will move the meter too.
A toilet that runs on is a very common culprit. Water may trickle into the pan all day from a worn flush valve or a faulty fill valve, and it can be hard to hear. It may look like a thin line of water running down the back of the pan.
How the Meter Test Works
Thames Water explains a simple meter test for leaks. First turn off all appliances that use water. Then close your inside stop valve, often called the stopcock, and take a meter reading. Wait 30 minutes without using any water, then read the meter again.
If the two readings are different, Thames Water says the leak is likely to be between the meter and your inside stop valve. That usually means the supply pipe that runs underground into the home. If the readings match, the supply pipe is less likely to be the problem, and the cause may be inside the property instead.
When the Leak Is Inside the Home
If the meter only moves while the stopcock is open, look at the pipework and fittings indoors. Check under sinks, behind the toilet, around the boiler area and near the water tank if you have one. Damp patches, stains or a musty smell can give a clue about where water is going.
Some leaks sit under floors or inside walls and leave few signs at first. Finding them can take patience and a careful process of checking one area at a time. If you cannot find the source, our team can help with tracing hidden leaks in Swindon so the right repair can be planned.
Why It Is Worth Checking Soon
Even a slow leak can add up over weeks and months, and on a meter you pay for that water. Water escaping underground may also soften the ground or cause damp in nearby walls. Acting early often makes the fix simpler.
If your meter keeps moving and you are not sure why, call Emergency Plumber Swindon on 01793 569521. We can talk through your meter readings and help you work out what to do next.