What is one potential reason for a water meter to read inaccurately?

A water meter can read inaccurately for several reasons, and one significant cause is the old age of the meter. Over time, mechanical components inside the water meter can wear down, leading to inaccuracies in measurement. This wear and tear can affect the gears, seals, and registering mechanisms, causing the meter to under-register or over-register the actual water usage.

Water meters are typically designed to provide accurate readings for a specific lifespan, which can vary based on the type and model, but as they age, their performance can decline. Regular maintenance and eventual replacement of old meters are essential to ensure reliable water usage readings. This understanding of meter aging is critical for professionals in the plumbing field to ensure customers receive correct bills and to help identify potential plumbing issues linked to meter inaccuracies.