Public Notice: Smart Water Meters Detect 72-Hour Continuous Water Flow in Lakeland Households

Public Notice: Smart Water Meters Detect 72-Hour Continuous Water Flow in Lakeland Households

Smart Water Meters Detect 72-Hour Continuous Water Flow in Lakeland Households
Continuous Flow Notification Letters Sent to Residents

LAKELAND, FL (October 15, 2026) - The City of Lakeland Water Utilities Department recently launched a proactive leak-detection initiative, mailing continuous flow notification letters to customers. These targeted notifications went to households where smart water meter technology detected 72 hours of continuous flow of water.

In a typical home, water usage naturally pauses during the overnight hours. A continuous flow is a definitive indicator of an ongoing, undetected leak. By notifying customers of continuous flow or potential leaks early, the department aims to conserve water, prevent property damage, and lower utility bills.

Next Steps for Customers Receiving a Water Utility Notice:

Turn off all water sources

• Inspect all faucets and outside spigots.

• Check washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets.

• Ensure irrigation systems and all other water-use areas are completely off.

Locate your water meter

• Look in the front yard of the property first.

• Check the backyard or other areas on the property if it is an older location.

Check the flow indicator

• Confirm that your home water system is completely turned off.

• Open the lid of the meter box to view the register.

• Watch for a spinning red pointer on mechanical meter faces.

• Check digital displays for a current flow rate greater than 0.

• Confirm a potential leak exists downstream if the indicator shows active flow.

Determine responsibility and next steps

• Contact a City of Lakeland Customer Service Representative at (863) 834-9535 if a leak is found inside the meter box itself.

• Take immediate steps to identify and repair the leak on your property if the meter box is dry.

• Note that the customer is responsible for repairs located from the meter to the customer's property and home.

To assist with future notifications, customers are encouraged to verify and update account contact information by going to www.LakelandElectric.com or call the Customer Service Center (863) 834.9535 Monday - Friday 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. This will help to ensure timely notifications regarding smart water meter alerts.

For more information about Smart Water Meters please visit us online at Water Smart Grid | City of Lakeland.

Contact:

Larry Little 
Communications Director
City of Lakeland
(863) 394-3942
[email protected]

About City of Lakeland Water Utilities

Lakeland Water Utilities proudly provides safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers throughout the greater Lakeland area. Our water service territory spans approximately 132 square miles, and our wastewater service territory covers about 150 square miles. We are committed to serving our community with high-quality utility services and welcome any questions or comments about our operations.

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