If you're like most homeowners, you probably don't give much thought to the stop taps for your water meter. However, recent news that some homes are missing a crucial second stop tap is a reminder of just how important this piece of equipment is. In this blog post, we'll discuss why having a water meter cut off valve is so important, and why it's worth investing in one for your home.
Firstly, let's define what we're talking about. A water meter stop tap is a valve that controls the flow of water to your property. This is usually located in the street, in a pit by the curb. However, in many cases, there is a second stop tap located between the main stop tap and the water meter, usually in the basement or garage of your home. This is often installed by the water meter installer, and it's essential for a number of reasons.
The main reason to have a second stop tap is that it allows you to shut off the water supply to your home without needing to access the street stop tap. This can be crucial in an emergency situation, such as a burst pipe or a leak. If you don't have a second stop tap, you could be left without water for a significant period of time while repairs are made. This could be particularly dangerous if you have young children, elderly relatives, or anyone with a medical condition in the home.
Another reason to have a water meter cut off valve is that it allows you to carry out maintenance work on your plumbing without having to shut off the water supply to your entire home. For example, if you need to replace a tap or fix a leaky pipe, you can simply shut off the water supply to that area of the house, rather than having to shut off the entire supply. This is not only more convenient, but also saves water and reduces the risk of damage to your property.
Finally, having a second stop tap can help you to reduce your water bills. By shutting off the supply to your home when you're not using it (e.g. during a vacation), you can save money on your water bills without having to shut off the street stop tap. This is an easy way to reduce your water consumption and lower your bills, without sacrificing convenience.
In conclusion, a water meter cut off valve is an essential piece of equipment for any homeowner. By allowing you to shut off the water supply to your home without needing to access the street stop tap, it can help you to prevent emergencies, reduce water usage, and save money on your bills. If you don't already have a second stop tap installed, we highly recommend investing in one today.