Harare Makes Key Admission About Prepaid Water Meters After Residents’ ComplaintsResidents using prepaid water meters in Harare have received an official explanation after long-standing complaints about being charged when only air comes out of their taps. The City of Harare says compressed air trapped in water pipelines can, under certain abnormal conditions, cause both prepaid and conventional water meters to register apparent water consumption. City Of Harare Explains Why Air Can Register On Water MetersIn a public statement issued with its partner Helcraw Water on 5 August 2026, the City of Harare said the issue is not unique to prepaid water meters and is linked to how all mechanical water meters operate. When water service is restored, the trapped air may pass through household meters before normal water flow resumes. The statement comes as concerns over prepaid water meter billing continue to be raised by some Harare residents following periods of interrupted water supply.