Test Meter Installation
Temporary test meter installation to confirm leakage on supply pipes before investigative works begin. Save unnecessary costs and follow the correct Wessex Water process.
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What is a Test Meter and Why is it Used?
When there is a suspicion that a water supply pipe may be leaking — perhaps prompted by an unexpectedly high water bill, a meter that does not stop spinning, or a notification from Wessex Water — the first step is often to confirm definitively whether a leak actually exists. Excavating a supply pipe speculatively without this confirmation risks significant cost and disruption for no outcome if the pipe turns out to be leak-free.
A test meter is a temporary flow-measuring device installed on the supply pipe at the boundary, typically at the external meter or stopcock. Once installed, it records any water flowing through the pipe over a monitoring period — usually overnight when no water should be consumed. Any recorded flow during this period confirms the presence of a supply pipe leak.
Test meter installation is a standard part of the Wessex Water supply pipe leak investigation process. As a Wessex Water approved contractor, Sherborne Utilities is experienced in carrying out this process correctly, providing you with reliable data that informs the most cost-effective next step.
If leakage is confirmed, we can proceed with specialist acoustic leak detection to pinpoint the precise location of the leak before carrying out targeted repair works. This staged approach saves time, money and unnecessary disruption to your property.
Benefits of Test Meter Installation
A straightforward step that provides certainty before any investigative works begin.
Confirm Leaks Before Excavation
A test meter confirms whether a leak actually exists on your supply pipe, saving you from unnecessary and costly excavation works if the pipe turns out to be sound.
Save Unnecessary Costs
Knowing definitively that a leak exists — and roughly how significant it is — allows informed decisions about the most cost-effective approach to investigation and repair.
Wessex Water Process
Test meter installation is a standard step in the Wessex Water leak investigation process. Our approved contractor status means we follow the correct procedures throughout.
Professional Installation
Meters are installed by qualified, Water Safe certified engineers to the required standards, with no disruption to the ongoing water supply during the monitoring period.
The Test Meter Process
A clear, straightforward process from suspicion to confirmation — and if needed, through to repair.
Initial Enquiry
You may suspect a leak due to high water bills, a meter that keeps running, or at Wessex Water's suggestion following high usage notification. We advise on whether a test meter is appropriate.
Meter Installation
We install a temporary test meter at the boundary stopcock or meter point. The supply remains live and properties remain occupied and operational throughout.
Monitoring Period
The test meter records flow over a set period, typically overnight when no water should be used. Any flow recorded confirms leakage on the supply pipe.
Results & Next Steps
We review the test meter readings with you. If leakage is confirmed, we advise on the appropriate leak detection and repair works. If no leakage is found, unnecessary excavation is avoided.
When Might Wessex Water Contact You?
Wessex Water monitors consumption data and may contact customers whose usage appears high relative to typical levels for their property type. This is often the first indication a homeowner has that they may have a supply pipe leak. Sherborne Utilities can work through the approved Wessex Water investigation process on your behalf.
Service Areas
Test meter installation across Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Devon. Sherborne Utilities covers the full Wessex Water region, based in Sherborne, Dorset.
Need a Test Meter Installed?
Call Sherborne Utilities for professional test meter installation. Wessex Water approved. Water Safe certified. Serving the South West.
01963 23200