Meter Testing and Replacement Program
Water meters are used to accurately measure and bill for water consumption. Meters lose accuracy over time due to wear and tear and normally result in under-billing. In order to collect all revenue and provide equitable service to all our customers, the Department of Public Utilities replaces meters on a fifteen-year interval. The program is on going. The replacement interval is determined by optimizing the replacement and maintenance costs with lost revenue. It is also consistent with industry-wide studies and practices.
Public Utilities tests a random sample of old meters to confirm the replacement interval. As a result of the program, we recover approximately $57.00 per meter per year. Depending on the number of meters replaced, we recover as much as $350,000 per year.
The Department tests large meters in-place without disruption to its customers. Large meters usually have a by-pass installed so that service is maintained while the meter is being tested. The meter can be repaired, or replaced, without the need for a service interruption as well.
This program insures accurate and equitable service by ensuring that each customer is paying for the correct amount of water used.
If you have questions, please call the Department of Public Utilities at 385-4631, Monday through Friday, 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (TTY: 711). Main office phone is 385-1400 and fax is 437-6363.
Emergencies - Nights - Weekends - Holidays call 311 or 385-3111 (TTY: Please call 911)