Higher water bill than usual?

by Jan Barker

With recent dry weather conditions and ground movement you could be experiencing a high than normal water bill, this could be a split water pipe under the ground.

You are responsible for repairs to a water main from the outlet point of the water meter where ever this may be located.

The point of supply could be:

  • Water meter located outside the property
  • Water meter located inside the property
  • Water meter located off a private road
  • Houses on a private road with a multi-meter box

If the leak is outside the boundary of your property, for example, on the street or footpath or in the water meter itself, please call Watercare on 09 442 222 for have it repaired.

If the leak is on your side of the water meter and property, you must call a registered plumber to fixt it. 

Give us a call 09 570 4396

You can check your water meter to see if the dial is turning when no water is being used - if it is turning, this usually indicates a leak.

A simple test will help confirm if you have a leak

  • Pick a time when no water will be used for at least four hours – overnight is a good time.
  • Read your water meter, then read it again after the period of not using any water. Make sure you don’t use any water during the test. DO NOT turn off the tap on the meter during the test - you need to be able to see if the meter dial still moves while you are not using water, as this helps indicate a leak. For example, if you do an overnight test, you would read your meter at night before bed, then again the first thing in the morning.
  • If the meter numbers are higher, this shows that water is being used and it is likely you have a leak.
  • Read all the numbers on the dial (black and red squares). 
  • The example below shows that about 25 litres of water were used during the night. This indicates a leak.  

How to check for obvious leaks

  • Look for dripping taps.
  • Look behind your dishwasher and washing machine for any signs of water.
  • Check your toilet cisterns. Put a few drops of food colouring in the cistern. If colour ends up in the toilet bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
  • See if the hot water cylinder expansion relief valve is letting water drip into the gully trap.
  • In dry weather, look for damp patches in the garden, lawn or driveway.
  • Listen for running water inside your home when no taps, hoses or showers are turned on.

What if I can’t find any leaks?

If your meter dial is moving and no water has been used, you may need to call a registered plumber to check further.

Give us a call 09 570 4396

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