Meter

How to Read Your Meter

Go to your water meter. Ignore the last two digits on the right and read only the remaining numbers (you will be left with either a three- or a four-digit number).

Find Out How Much Water You Use

If you'd like to know how much water your household is using, select a time of day and read your meter, then read it again at the same time the next day. Subtract the smaller number from the larger and the remainder is the amount of water (expressed in units) used in that 24-hour period.

Reduce Your Water Usage

If you'd like to reduce the amount of water you're currently using, here are some easy steps to follow:

• Check all faucets, pipes and toilets periodically for leaks)
• Install water-saving shower heads
• Take shorter showers
• Install a 1.6 gallon low-flow toilet
• Water lawn only when needed
• Recycle pool water
• Replace washers when garden hoses start to drip
• Use a bucket of soapy water to wash the car
• Use a hose with a trigger nozzle (that shuts off automatically)
• Keep a container of drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap for cold water

Checking for Leaks

If your water bill is unusually high, you may have a leak. To check for a leak, make sure all the faucets, hoses, and sprinklers are turned off, then write down all the numbers (including the last two digits) on your meter. Also note the position of the red sweep dial on your meter. Wait several hours (keeping the faucets off), then check your meter again. None of the numbers or dials should have moved. If they have, you most likely have a leak. Get in touch with a qualified plumber or call the Niagara Falls Water Board at (716)283-9770 ext. 201 for additional assistance.

High Bill Investigations

The Niagara Falls Water Board will provide-at no cost-a high bill investigation to any customer receiving a high water bill. A trained Water Board employee will survey your premises for possible causes of unusually high water usage. High bill investigations are done by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling (716)283-9770 ext. 201.

Theft of Water or Sewer Services

The theft of water or sewer services is a crime and violators will be prosecuted. Water and sewer theft affects all users by raising the cost of water to all customers. If you have any information about water or sewer theft please call (716)283-9770 ext. 201 to report the crime. All information will be kept confidential.

Schedule of Rates

Download the Schedule of Rates 2010/2011

Water Board Employees

All Water Board employees are required to carry proper identification at all times. Do not let anyone into your home without checking their identification first. If you are still not sure please call us at (716)283-9770 ext. 201.