In the meter shown, the reading is taken from figures shown under the words "CUBIC FEET." The meter reads 81710.03, which is the total number of cubic feet of water recorded since the meter was installed. The majority of the city's meters are the straight-reading meter, which resembles an odometer in a car. Charges for the amount of water consumed are based on the number of units (1 unit equals 100 cubic feet or approximately 748.05 gallons) used during a billing period. City of Poway meters measure water in cubic feet (1 cubic foot equals approximately 7.5 gallons). Step 2: Read Your Water MeterĪll customers within the City of Poway have their water use measured by a meter. Visually examine the area around the meter to make sure there are no harmful insects or other animals. Insert the tool into the hole and lift the lid off. It is housed in a concrete box usually marked "water." Carefully remove the lid by using a tool such as a large screwdriver. Your water meter is generally located near the curb in front of your home or place of business in a direct line with your main outside faucet. Here are some tips to help you find and read your water meter. If the meter is still turning, chances are you have a leak somewhere. To do this, turn off all the taps in your house, then look at your meter. By reading your meter at the beginning and end of a day, you can compare the 2 readings to tell how much water you and your family used. First, you might be interested to know how much water you use in a day. There are several reasons why you might want to locate and read your water meter.