02/11/2026
🚨 Received One of These Water Leak Notices? 🚨
We’re seeing these more and more lately as colder weather hits. ❄️ Older pipes can crack or shift during freeze cycles, which may lead to higher water bills and possible leaks.
First — don’t panic. 👍
In our experience, about 50% of the time the issue is simply a toilet that is constantly running inside the home. That said, it’s important to address it quickly because 💧 water utilities typically DO NOT issue credits for above-ground leaks.
If you’ve received a notice like this, here’s how you can check whether the leak is inside the home or underground:
🔍 How to Check for a Leak
1️⃣ Shut off the main water valve inside your home.
This is typically located near the pressure regulator on an exterior wall in the basement.
2️⃣ Open the meter box at the street.
Use a flashlight if needed — many digital meters won’t activate without light.
3️⃣ Observe the meter.
Most upgraded meters will display “GPM” (Gallons Per Minute) when water is flowing.
If the meter shows flow while the main valve is OFF ➡️ you likely have an underground leak.
If it does NOT show flow ➡️ your main line is likely good.
You can also take a meter reading, wait 5 minutes (without using water), and recheck:
If the reading does not change → ✅ No main line leak.
If it changes → water is moving somewhere.
Next Step:
Turn the main valve back ON (do not use any water).
Take another reading and wait 5 minutes.
If the meter changes → you likely have an interior leak (most commonly a running toilet 🚽).
Shut off all toilets and recheck the meter to confirm.
If you’re unsure or just want peace of mind, we’re happy to help.
🔧 Chadler’s Plumbing LLC
Serving Sandy & Salt Lake County
Honest diagnostics. Straightforward solutions.
Send us a message if you need guidance or a professional inspection. We’re here to help our community save water and avoid unnecessary high bills. 💪💦
TXT/CALL 385-270-3768 CHADLERS.com