It’s all about revenue – an oft repeated saying in the water industry goes something like this, “The water that comes out of the faucet is free, it’s getting it to the faucet that one pays for”. Simply put, the utility exists because its consumers pay for ALL of the water they use, and most utilities rely on water meters to capture this revenue.
Inaccurate meters mean lost revenue. AWWA guidelines allow 5/8 x 3/4 PD meters to fluctuate +/-1.5%. The vast majority of today’s meters maintain this accuracy for 8 to 10 years. After that, meter accuracy falls dramatically -- and very rarely in favor of the utility! It is the nature of a water meter to run slower rather then faster as it gets older.
Mueller Service Company can help put your revenue back on track with our Meter Replacement Program. We work to develop comprehensive programs that meet the individual needs of each utility. The core programs include:
- Locate and access the meter
- Remove soil within the box to elevation below the meter and couplings
- Attempt to notify customer that their water will be shut for a few minutes while the meter is changed
- Isolate customer’s line if possible to avoid draining interior piping
Shut off curb stop- Replace meter, mount antenna (if applicable) and “wake up” AMR register (if applicable)
- Turn on curb stop and check for leaks
- Clear customer’s line
- Record both old and new meter serial number and register reading
Additional services that can accompany this program include:
- Leak detection at each service connection
- Raising the meter box to grade with installation of extension
- Replacing the meter box and/or lid
- Installing in-line backflow prevention device