Meter types
Residential meters
Residential water meters are located in a cement box in the ground, usually near the end of a driveway or sidewalk. If the residence is in a condominium, townhome, or apartment, the meters for one building are typically located in a row or bank of meters in an area near the units.
Mixed-used meters
These meters on commercial properties measure both outdoor water usage, such as landscaping and outdoor spigots, and indoor water usage, such as toilet flushing, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, and production processes requiring water.
Reading your water meter
Your water meter is read like an automobile odometer. IRWD meters record each 100 cubic feet of water used (100 cubic feet equals 1 CCF of water, or 748 gallons).
- Open your meter box
While wearing gloves, use your fingers to lift the small center portion of the meter lid. If you are unable to lift the lid with your fingers, use a stick or screwdriver to gently prop the lid open. - Track your daily usage
Read and record the meter reading on at least two consecutive days. By subtracting the previous day’s reading from the current reading, you can determine how many CCFs of water you use in a specific period of time. Multiply that number by 748 for how many gallons of water were used.
Who is responsible for water meter upkeep?
IRWD is responsible for maintaining the meter, but it is the property owner’s responsibility to keep the surrounding area free of debris. Keeping your water meter clean and accessible helps prevent malfunctions and ensures accurate water usage readings.
Who reads my water meter?
IRWD contracts with Alexander’s Contract Services (ACS) to perform meter reading services. ACS uses an automated, hand-held meter reading system that is downloaded and transferred electronically to IRWD’s billing system.
IRWD’s mission is to provide services in an efficient, cost-effective manner. Though the District is a public agency, many operations have been privatized to take advantage of fast-changing technology and an up-to-date pool of resources and skills.
Can I use add-on devices with my water meter that monitor my water usage?
IRWD does not permit add-on devices affixed to your water meter. IRWD owns the water meter, the meter box, and everything inside it. Tampering of any kind within the box is prohibited to ensure unimpeded access to the meter as part of ongoing operations. Any device or other unauthorized equipment inside the meter box will be promptly removed.
Add-on devices that send real-time alerts about water use are permitted inside your home or on your pipes that run from the meter box to your home. Learn more about rules regarding add-on devices.
Who is responsible for water repairs?
IRWD is responsible for maintenance and repairs to the water system from the street to the District side of the meter.
The customer side of the meter begins at the customer valve located on the meter. The customer is responsible for any necessary repairs at and beyond the customer valve away from the street.
IRWD is not able to check for or repair leaks on a customer’s property.
Support Links
- Meter log sheet
IRWD can provide commercial properties with a log sheet to help keep track of weekly water usage. Contact the Water Efficiency department at 949-453-5581 or WaterEfficiency@IRWD.com. - Assistance with water usage
For help recording your water usage or determining your current indoor and outdoor water allocations, contact the Water Efficiency department at 949-453-5581 or WaterEfficiency@IRWD.com. - Schedule a water use survey
If your recent bills have been in the Inefficient or Wasteful tiers, schedule a free water use survey. IRWD will help you read your meter and troubleshoot reasons for high water usage.
Questions about your meter?
Contact Customer Service at 949-453-5300 or CustomerService@IRWD.com.
