This time of year, the District sees an increase in the number of calls from customers reporting high consumption on their most recent water bill. In several, but not all cases, the increase is a result of a leak that the customer did not realize they had and many times on their irrigation system. Here are some ways you can troubleshoot the cause of your higher water bill on your own.
- First, locate your water meter.
- Next, locate you water supply shut off valve.
- Turn off all faucets and any water-using appliances.
- Note the gallon calculating sweep hand on the meter.
- After about 30 minutes or so, look at the dial to see if the hand or number wheels have moved. If they have moved, you have a leak either inside or underground.
- To determine whether the leak is inside or underground, turn off the main shut off valve (this step will only work if you have an exterior meter – see reference chart on Denver Water’s website by clicking here). If the indicator stops, your leak is inside the home.
- Be sure to double check your toilets and all faucets in the home.
- If the indicator continues to move when the shut off valve is closed, you have a leak underground in your service line that will need to be repaired by a plumber. On our website, under construction corner, you can find a list of licensed plumbers in the district.
If you do have a leak and get it repaired, District staff can check the meter to make sure the leak has ceased and can notify Denver Water. You may be eligible for a bill adjustment on your Denver Water bill.
Also, remember to take in to account the weather when evaluating your water bill. If you irrigate your lawn regularly, your bill will increase a great deal, especially in the hotter, dryer months. Remember to follow Denver Water’s Summer Watering Rules. They are meant to help conserve water, but also to help your lawn look luscious and green by retaining more water at cooler times of the day.
District staff is available to help you determine if you have an active leak and to assure that your meter is functioning properly. If you have tried everything but feel like the problem has not been resolved or there is not an explanation for your higher than normal water bill, call the district office at 303-979-2333. Our regular business hours are from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm for non-emergencies. You can also send us a request to investigate a high water bill using our online Customer Request Form found on our homepage.
For a more detailed description on how to read your meter, visit Denver Water’s website.