Determining water consumption involves subtracting the previous meter reading from the current reading. The resulting difference indicates the volume of water used during that period, typically measured in gallons or cubic feet. For example, if the current meter displays 12345 and the previous reading was 12245, consumption equals 100 units.
Accurate monitoring of water usage empowers informed resource management. This enables identification of leaks, tracking of consumption patterns, and ultimately, optimization of water conservation efforts. Historically, such monitoring facilitated billing accuracy and equitable distribution of resources within communities and utilities.