Water meter spinning with everything off

The water meter is the best leak detector you already own. If it moves when nothing is running, water is escaping somewhere.

Confirm the leak

1. Turn off every faucet, appliance and irrigation system.
2. Look at the meter. Many have a small leak indicator, a triangle or dial, that turns with even slight flow.
3. Write down the reading, avoid using water for one to two hours, and check again.

Inside or outside?

1. Close the main shutoff valve where the water enters the house.
2. Watch the meter. If it stops, the leak is inside the house.
3. If it keeps moving, the leak is probably in the service line between the meter and the house, or the shutoff valve is not sealing.

Common indoor leaks

• Running toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank; if color appears in the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, the flapper leaks.
• Dripping faucets and showerheads
• A water heater relief valve discharging
• Water softener or irrigation valves stuck open
• Hidden leaks under slabs or inside walls; a warm floor spot suggests a hot water slab leak

Common outdoor leaks

• The water service line, often with a soggy strip of lawn
• Irrigation lines and valves
• Outdoor faucets and hose connections

Next steps

Fix easy leaks like toilet flappers yourself. For hidden leaks, a plumber with leak detection equipment can pinpoint the spot. See our slab leak repair cost and water line replacement cost guides for what the larger repairs cost.

How to read the meter

Most residential meters show gallons or cubic feet on a row of numbers, plus a sweep hand and a small low-flow indicator. The indicator is the one to watch: it turns with even a dripping faucet. Meters are usually in a box near the street or where the water line enters the house; the utility can tell you where yours is.

Why it matters

• Hidden leaks raise water bills month after month.
• Leaks inside walls or under slabs cause rot, mold and foundation problems over time.
• Some utilities offer bill adjustments after a verified leak is repaired; ask yours.

Keep an eye on it

Checking the meter once or twice a year, or after any plumbing work, catches leaks early. A smart leak detector or automatic shutoff valve can alert you to leaks near water heaters, washing machines and sinks.