How to read a water meter reading

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If you receive a different bill for water consumed every month, then your water consumption is recorded using a water meter. A water meter is a simple device that is installed on the main water pipe and measures the amount of water passing through it. This volume is read by utilities for water billing, but you can also read the value to determine water consumption. Having learned how to read the readings of water meters, you can learn how to save water and reduce the amount for water consumption.

Steps

1 Determine where the water meter is located. If you live in a private house, then the meter will most likely be located in the well in front of your site from the street side. It should be in a concrete well with a cover. If you live in an apartment, then the water meters must be in a certain room, closet or bathroom. If the water bill is included in the rent, then the water in the whole house is measured with one water meter.
2 If present, remove the protective cover from the water meter. If the water meter is located in a concrete well, then it can be protected by a cover with several holes. Use a screwdriver to pry the cover through one of these holes, then pry up the edge with your finger. Remove the cover and set it aside.
3 Raise the protective pad. Water meters often have a massive metal plate to protect the dial from damage. Fold back the hinge cover to reveal the dial.
4 Determine the amount of water consumed. On the face of the water meter, you will see a large dial and a row of numbers. The numbers indicate the volume of water consumed through the meter since the last discharge. The units of measurement are usually indicated on the dial; usually liters or cubic meters. The dial itself rotates slowly when water is consumed, so it is not very suitable for taking instant readings.
5 Determine the amount of water consumed over a certain period of time. To find out the amount of water consumed, record the reading of the water meter.After a certain period of time (day, week, or month), record the new reading. Subtract the first value from the second and find out how much water you used during this time. When trying to match your own numbers with the numbers in your bills, keep in mind that utilities may record meter readings on different days of the month.
6 Calculate the cost of water consumption. If you want to know the cost of the consumed water, then you need to know the method of invoicing. Check the invoice to find out the minimum unit; usually the cost per cubic meter of water is indicated. It may depend on the volume consumed. Convert the consumed amount of water into the desired units of measurement and multiply by the corresponding unit cost of water.