Automated meter systems are becoming the preferred data collection method among water utilities for many reasons. These new devices allow for more accurate and faster collection of water usage readings than the current manual method and improve safety conditions for the District staff. Currently, the meter readers must open every meter box to obtain a reading which is physically demanding and introduces the employee to hazards such as traffic issues, weather and other environmental risks. Automatic meter reading is one of the ways we can better serve our customers as we can provide customers with more metering data for pinpointing when water usage is occurring and the ability to notify customers if a leak is indicated on the customer side of the meter.

The current residential AMR program will replace the existing 24000 residential. We began installing AMR meters in late 2014 and it is projected to be a 3 year project.

No. The radio transmission operates in compliance with Federal Communications Commission regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices.

Yes, meters come pretested along with results directly from the manufacturer. The radio device will be tested for accuracy during the meter collection process regularly. The District chose Badger as their meter manufacturer. You may find factory information at http://www.badgermeter.com/Water-Utility/AMR--AMI-Hardware-Solutions/ORION/ORION-ME.htm.

Each radio frequency device has a unique identification number (MXU), which is transmitted along with the meter reading. The unique number is compared to your account record to ensure a match.

No, this new technology will reduce the amount of meter readers needed to read the District’s meters. But, you will still see meter readers in your neighborhood. There are times that the radio signal transmission is weak and meter readers may have to walk up to the meter before acquiring a read. Most reads will be acquired by simply driving by. We’ll continue to visit your property for routine service, maintenance or repair, and respond to water emergencies.

No. Since the water meters are located outside of the home in the right of way, you will not need to be home for the replacement work.  

If you experience a change in your service after we install a new meter, call 423-877-3513 to report the problem. Because your water will be turned off temporarily during the meter change process, you may experience a brief period of air or discolored water. In most cases, briefly running your cold water will clear this situation. 

All meters will be replaced to upgrade the meter to one capable of communicating with the AMR equipment, and as an extension of an existing program to replace aging meters after they have reached the end of their life cycle. With the introduction of newer technology, the existing meters are not able to communicate using AMR technology.

No. There will still be occurrences when District employees will visit the meter on-site to perform routine maintenance or verify readings.

No, this new technology will reduce the amount of meter readers needed to read the District’s meters. But, you will still see meter readers in your neighborhood. There are times that the radio signal transmission is weak and meter readers may have to walk up to the meter before acquiring a read. Most reads will be acquired by simply driving by. We’ll continue to visit your property for routine service, maintenance or repair, and respond to water emergencies.

1.       Provides the ability to offer  more usage data for usage disputes and to notify customers of 
          potential leaks

2.       Improved customer service by increasing accuracy of meter readings.

3.       Minimized need to access meters at the property. 

It can occur. Older meters lose accuracy as they age and don’t measure all the water going through them. The new water meter will accurately measure the water you use. All new meters are tested prior to delivery by the manufacturer to ensure that they register properly. If you see a higher bill immediately upon the new meter installation, it’s likely the old meter was running slow.