Water Leaks

The first indication of a water leak on a property is most often an abnormally high water bill. While we attempt to proactively notify customers when water usage exceeds expected levels, customers are reminded to regularly monitor their bills for unexpected changes in usage. All water usage and piping systems beyond the water meter at each property line are the responsibility of that property owner.

If you suspect a water leak on your property, we recommend checking your water meter first as it will indicate in real time if water is passing through the meter. Here are the steps to perform a basic leak test for your property:

1. Ensure all water on the property is turned off, including clothes washing machines and any other appliances that might be using water. Remember that water fixtures outside of the home, such as irrigation systems, hose bibs and hot tubs, also contribute to your water usage and should be shut off.
2. Carefully lift the lid off of the water meter box. The lid will have a black circular plastic disc on the top; take care not to damage the wires connecting this disc to the water meter inside the box. The lid is heavy so please use caution when removing. (Please note: SSL assumes no liability for damage or injury from removing water meter lids; customers do so at their own risk).
3. The meter may be covered in sawdust or mulch to protect it from freezing in cold weather. Expose the face of the meter, and look for a small red circle (dial) on the meter. This red circle will have a black line on it and the outer edge of the circle should have marked increments.
4. Watch the black line and if the dial is moving, it means that water is passing through the meter. If all known water fixtures are turned off, this likely indicates that there is a leak somewhere on the property.

If you have determined you have a leak, the next recommended step would be to check all areas on the property. For example, you may want to check the your irrigation boxes and turn off the main irrigation valve. Once this valve is closed, check the water meter dial again and see if it has stopped turning. Follow this step with any other potentially leaking fixtures or appliances in the home until the red dial stops turning.

You may wish to contact a plumber or landscape contractor for further assistance in locating or repairing a leak. Please also feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need any help locating or checking your water meter.

Water Pressure

The incoming water pressure to each home at Westhills is regulated by a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV). Water pressure in the distribution system is typically maintained at a higher level than needed for most buildings and this device, part of each home’s plumbing system, limits the incoming water pressure to an appropriate level. If the PRV for your home requires maintenance or repair, please contact a plumber.