Faulty, damaged or leaking meter
Faulty, damaged or leaking meter
If you're experiencing issues with your water meter, such as unusual noises, visible damage, or leaks, follow these steps to help you determine when and how to address these issues.
My water meter is making unusual noises. What should I do?
If your meter is making unusual or loud noises, it could indicate a problem. Here's what you can do:
- Check for loose connections: Ensure the pipes near the meter aren’t loose or vibrating.
- Listen closely: If the noise is persistent or getting louder, it could be a sign of a pressure issue or a faulty meter.
- When to report: If the noise continues or you’re unsure, report the issue online or call us for assistance.
What should I do if my meter is damaged?
A damaged meter can affect both your water supply and billing. Here's how to proceed:
- Check the meter: Check for visible cracks, dents, or other signs of damage.
- Is the damage affecting water supply?: If you notice lower water pressure or disruptions in supply, the damage may be more serious.
- When to report: If the meter is visibly damaged, report it immediately through our online form or by phone to prevent further complications.
How do I check for a slow leak at the meter?
A slow leak can result in higher water bills and wasted water. Here's how you can check:
- Turn off all water in your home: Ensure no water is being used (taps, appliances, etc.).
- Check the meter dial: If the numbers on the meter dial are still moving when no water is in use, there may be a leak.
- When to report: If you detect a leak at the meter, especially if it's small, you can report it through our online Faults and Outages map or by phone to prevent further complications.
Don’t worry—you won’t be charged for water that leaks before it passes through the meter.
Take a look at our Finding leaks on your property page for more helpful information.
When should I report a water meter issue?
You should report a meter issue when you experience any of the following:
- Unusual noises: Persistent, unexplained noises that don’t go away after checking for loose pipes.
- Visible damage: Cracks, dents, or breaks in the meter or associated pipes.
- Leaks: Any visible leaks around the meter or an indication that the meter is registering water use when none is being used.
Water meters are the property of SA Water and we are responsible for fixing and replacing damaged and fault water meters.
Will I be charged for water lost due to a leak at the meter?
If the leak occurs at or before the meter (on the tap side or supply side), you will not be charged for the water loss. The meter only records water that passes through it, so any leaks on the supply side won’t affect your bill.
However, if the leak is not on the tap side (after the water passes through the meter), the water usage will be recorded, and you will be charged for that water.
Take a look at our Finding leaks on your property page for more helpful information.
Can I log minor meter issues online instead of calling?
Yes, minor issues such as a slow leak or small damage to the meter can be reported through our Faults and Outages map. This can save you time, and we’ll assess the issue and follow up as needed.
