A water meter is a device used to measure the amount of water consumed by a household or business. It tracks the volume of water flowing through the pipes, providing accurate readings for billing purposes. Water meters can be found in various types, including mechanical and digital models, and are typically installed near the main water supply line. These meters help utility companies monitor water usage and manage resources efficiently. By measuring consumption, they can identify leaks and encourage conservation efforts. Regular readings from a water meter ensure that customers are billed fairly based on their actual usage of water.