A water meter is a device that measures how much water you use. Water meters are typically located in the lowest level of the residence, where the water service line enters your home, and right next to the main shut-off valve.
The water meter mechanically measures how much water is used in your home. This information is used to determine your water bill. Water use is measured in cubic metres with one cubic metre (1 m3) equalling 1,000 litres.
Residential water meters rely on water flowing through the meter to physically move the measuring element in direct proportion to the amount of water that passes through the meter. This action drives the register that records the water use.
A reading device (called a touchpad) normally located on the outside of your home is connected to the water meter via a communication wire. In order to obtain a read from the water meter, the meter reader must walk by and make direct contact with this device using special reading equipment. It is important that the reading device is accessible to the meter reader in order to obtain a read.