Look for continuous use
A stable amount of extra daily consumption often points to a continuous leak. Irrigation and guests usually create irregular or seasonal patterns instead.
Run a no-use meter test
Turn off faucets, appliances, irrigation and ice makers, then record the meter. Do not use water for a set period and check again. Movement suggests water is flowing somewhere.
- Check toilets with dye
- Inspect irrigation valves
- Look at the water-heater relief line
- Review utility hourly-use data if available
Act on active leaks
The calculator estimates utility cost, not property damage. Shut off the supply and contact a qualified plumber when water is actively damaging the building.
Worked example: turn a meter change into a daily rate
Suppose a no-use test shows 10 gallons of movement over two hours. If that flow were continuous, the scenario would be 10 ÷ 2 × 24 = 120 gallons per day, or 3,600 gallons over 30 days.
The arithmetic estimates scale; it does not identify the source. Repeat the test only when all intended water uses are off, then isolate toilets, irrigation, softeners or other equipment without delaying action on visible damage.
Any meter movement during a controlled no-use period deserves investigation; visible water damage, a gas odor, electrical risk or an uncontrollable leak requires immediate safety action rather than more calculation.
Primary sources and scope
These links support the units or diagnostic method used above. They do not replace your provider’s current tariff, bill or safety instructions.
- EPA WaterSense — Home maintenance ↗ — Recommends comparing bills and rereading the meter after a two-hour no-use period.
- EPA WaterSense — Fix a Leak Week ↗ — Provides official meter, toilet and household leak-check steps.
This guide explains general billing math. Utility tariffs and local rules control your actual charges. Sources and update practices are documented in our methodology.
Read the methodology →