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For many Maui homeowners, keeping an eye on water usage is part of responsible island living — but what happens when you can’t even open your water meter lid?

You’re not alone. Many residents discover that their meter boxes are heavy, rusted, or secured with bolts, making them difficult or even unsafe to open on their own.

Here’s what you should know before you try to lift that lid — and who to call for help.

Why Some Water Meter Lids Won’t Budge

Water meters in Maui are often located in concrete or metal boxes near the property line or driveway. Over time, salt air, rust, and soil buildup can make the lids stick tight. Some are intentionally bolted down by the County of Maui Department of Water Supply to prevent damage or tampering. Trying to pry it open with tools can cause cracks, broken hinges, or even injury, which may result in repair fees.

What to Do If You Can’t Open It

If your lid won’t lift easily, don’t force it.
Instead, contact the Department of Water Supply for assistance. A technician can safely open the box, check for leaks, and ensure the meter isn’t damaged.

📞 Department of Water Supply – Maui County
Visit: County of Maui Water Meter Guide

While you wait, you can still monitor your water use by checking your most recent bill or signing up for “Eye on Water” (if available in your area). This online tool lets you track water usage remotely and get alerts for potential leaks.

Understanding What’s Under the Lid

Once open, your water meter will show:

• A set of numbers — measuring usage in thousands of gallons.

• A small red or blue dial (leak indicator) — if it moves when no water is running, you may have a leak.

Remember: Water usage is measured in thousands of gallons, and Maui uses a tiered rate system — meaning the more water you use, the higher the cost per thousand gallons.

You can view current residential rates anytime on the County of Maui Water Charges page.

Preventing Future Problems

• Keep vegetation trimmed around your water meter box.

• Avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects on the lid.

• If you notice cracks, leaks, or corrosion, report it early to the County.

For larger water system maintenance, including irrigation or waterworks supplies, ISI Hawaii is a trusted local vendor serving Maui homeowners. From irrigation components to water fittings, they’re the go-to resource for keeping your system running smoothly.

Understanding your water meter — even if you can’t open it yourself — helps you stay proactive about leaks, water conservation, and billing accuracy. By staying on top of your usage, you can prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs.

And if you’re thinking about selling your Maui home in the future, a well-maintained water system adds more than efficiency — it shows care and pride of ownership, qualities that resonate strongly with buyers and can help boost your home’s market value.