The Palm Bay Utilities Department currently utilizes two types of water meters - a standard meter and a radio frequency meter. You can use your water meter to determine if you have a leak. Below are steps to follow if you have a radio frequency meter:

Using a Radio Frequency (RF) Meter to Check for Leaks

In order to activate the LCD panel on the meter you will need a high-powered flashlight.

• Remove the lid from meter box.
• Raise the black lid on the meter.
• Hold your flashlight over the light sensor (1) and within a few seconds you will begin seeing the reading in the LCD display box (5) located just below the light sensor.
• Continue holding the flashlight over the solar panel. The average rate of flow (3) is displayed every 6 seconds alternating with the reading. All meters started at zero. To get the reading, begin from the left and write down the numbers. The meter reading is shown in gallons. For residential customers you will need to read the first five numbers. The number of digits to read varies on commercial accounts depending on the size of the meter, so please feel free to call our office if you have questions.
• Check the Leak Indicator (2).
  
  • The flow indicator (4) arrow shows the direction of flow through the meter. If you do not see the arrow, then water is not in use. If the arrow is flashing, then water is running slowly.

  
  LEAK INDICATOR - Displays a possible leak

  OFF: No leak indicated
  FLASHING: Possible Intermittent Leak
  ON CONTINUOUSLY: Indicates water use for all intervals during a 24-hour period.

  FLOW INDICATOR - Shows the direction of flow through the meter.

  ON: Water in use
  OFF: Water not in use.
  FLASHING: Water is running slowly.
  (-) Reverse flow
  (+) Forward flow

  Common Reasons for Leaks: dripping faucets, showerheads and/or toilets.  A toilet tank test can be done by putting a few drops of food coloring inside the toilet tank, wait 15 - 30 minutes and see if any color has leaked down into the bowl.  If so, your toilet flapper may need to be repaired or replaced.

  Leaks on the customer's side of the meter are the responsibility of the homeowner, and it is recommended that the homeowner contact a licensed plumber to make repairs.