Frequently Asked Questions
Leak Detection & Surveys
Yes. We provide comprehensive leak surveys to help utilities identify and reduce water loss.
No. Our services are focused on municipal water systems, not inside private homes or businesses.
No. We do not provide residential leak detection. Please contact your local plumber for private property needs.
Yes. Annual surveys are considered best practice for reducing non-revenue water and maintaining system efficiency.
Yes. We have the equipment and expertise to locate leaks on large-diameter transmission mains.
Yes. We offer continuous monitoring options that allow for real-time detection of leaks in distribution systems.
Yes. We provide I&I detection services to help identify and reduce system inflow and infiltration.
We use advanced acoustic technology and correlation methods to pinpoint leaks quickly and accurately.
Valve Exercising &
Seized Valves
We use both methods depending on the system and valve condition, with a preference for manual exercising per AWWA standards.
Yes. Annual valve exercising is recommended to ensure system reliability and proper operation.
Valve exercising keeps valves functional, prevents them from seizing, and ensures they operate when needed.
Yes. We provide valve release services using specialized equipment designed to safely free seized valves.
Yes. Our crews can release seized valves in treatment facilities and booster stations.
Yes. We also provide valve release services in wastewater plants.
Hydrant Flushing,
Fire Flow & Hydrant Maintenance
Hydrant flushing is performed to clear sediment and improve water quality, while main capacity testing evaluates system capacity and fire flow.
Yes. We can conduct single-hydrant flow tests where system layout requires it. Though it is not a true water main capacity test and does not meet AWWA M17 or ISO/Verisk requirements.
ISO requires fire flow testing as part of its community fire protection rating system. We can help ensure compliance. For a full list of requirements, please contact us.
Annual testing is recommended to ensure adequate fire protection and maintain system performance.
Flushing may cause temporary discoloration. The process helps improve water quality and system reliability.
Hydrant maintenance includes lubrication, inspection, flushing, and verifying full operation.
Customers should avoid using water during flushing times, run cold taps afterward if discoloration occurs, and contact their water district with concerns.
Meter Testing & Calibration
Yes. We test meters of all sizes to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards.
Yes. We provide wastewater meter testing services.
We can test large commercial and industrial meters, including sizes up to 108 inches.
Testing schedules are based on the water meter’s revenues, which can vary from twice a year to every three years. We recommend testing schedules based on AWWA standards.
This range accounts for industry standards and allowable tolerance while ensuring meters remain accurate and reliable.
Calibration adjusts the meter electronically, while a flow test measures actual water volume passing through the meter.
Click Here for our digital RMA form. Please contact us with additional questions.
Backflow Testing
We no longer provide backflow testing services.
Water Audits &
Asset Management
Yes. We perform AWWA-approved water audits and validations to help utilities manage non-revenue water.
Services include leak detection, meter testing, and water audits.
Asset management includes creating system components inventory, assessing condition, and creating plans for maintenance and replacement.
Yes. We create hydraulic models to simulate system performance and identify improvements.
Not always. We’ll recommend the right level of precision based on your system and data needs.
Specialized Testing & Assessments
Yes. We offer condition assessments to evaluate the health and performance of water mains.
A Pitot Test is an inline meter testing method that can be performed during regular operation on meters up to 108” in size.
This is a form of meter test that utilizes reservoir storage to determine the accuracy of the meter.
A C-Factor test determines pipe roughness and flow characteristics of the pipe for hydraulic modeling.
Yes. We provide pump efficiency and performance testing.
General Questions
Scheduling depends on workload and location. Contact us for availability.
Prevailing wage rules may apply depending on project type and funding.
Yes. Our crews are trained and certified in confined-space entry.
Two-person crews improve safety, efficiency, and data accuracy.
They are industry standards designed to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient water system operations.
We specialize in water loss control, asset management, and water quality services for utilities and engineering firms.
We serve clients nationwide.
Our typical hours are Mon – Fri, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm. Our 800 number is available 24/7 for emergency leak detection. (24 hr service varies based on location).
Pricing varies by scope and location. Contact us for a quote.
No. We do not repair water main breaks, but we can assist with locating leaks and system testing.
No. We do not install pipe taps.
Careers at M.E. Simpson
Yes. We provide training and certifications necessary for fieldwork.
Experience is preferred but not always required—we provide on-the-job training.
Get Your Custom
Proposal Today
Ready to elevate your project? Contact us now to discuss your needs and receive a tailored quote that fits your requirements.