Checking for Leaks / How to Save on your Water Bill

Checking for Leaks

Meters in the Town of Yorktown are positive displacement meters.  This means that water must push the chamber forward in order for the register head numbers (the reading) to advance.  This is important to know if you are experiencing high usage.

All water that flows through a meter, whether used or wasted, will be billed to the homeowner.  An unusually high usage is commonly the result of one or all of the following:

  • A leaking toilet can be constantly or intermittently running.  The water leaks from the tank into the bowl.  You will not see water on the floor with this type of leak.
  • Irrigation sprinkler heads that have been damaged or the piping underground can be cracked.  The leak may not surface.
  • Pressure reducer that has failed will no longer reduce the velocity of the water resulting in high pressure allowing the water flow to increase.
  • Water softener problems resulting in constant cycling.
  • Broken service lines from meter pit to structures.
  • Broken pipes in crawl spaces.
  • Leaking water from water-cooled air conditioners.
  • Running water to prevent freeze ups in winter.

Also keep in mind, typically water consumption is higher during the summer due to watering of lawns and plants and topping off or filling pools.

All water accounts have a water meter located within its building or a meter pit located commonly near the road.  Our meters consist of:

 

  1. Digital register head meters: you will see a plus (+) sign in a circle ONLY when water is passing through the meter. 


     

  2. ​Analog (odometer type) register head meters: you will see the black triangle or red circle dial turning clockwise ONLY when water is passing through the meter.

    Analog

It is recommended to check your meter head/register regularly to determine if there is an active leak at your location. 

For a list of the current water rates please refer to Yorktown Town Code Chapter 280, Article III Water Regulations, §280-31 Fees & Charges. (direct link: https://www.ecode360.com/6853702).