What is a water meter and how does it work?
Your water meter measures the amount of water used in your household or business. Residential water meters use a tried and true
technology called a nutating disk to measure the flow of water. Here’s a video link to show how this works: youtu.be/v3vcPhuWXSs
Where is my water meter located?
In most cases, your water meter sits inside a pit located in your front yard or in the streetscape (between the sidewalk and the
curb). The pit has a cover on it that identifies it as a water meter.
How is the water meter currently being read?
Aurora Water has used a system called Automated Meter Reading (AMR) since 1995. AMR uses a low-power radio transmitter to send
meter data a relatively short distance. Aurora Water reads whole neighborhoods of meters once a month by driving around in vehicles with
a computer and radio receiver.
What is the advanced system being installed and how does it work?
The new system is called Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). It sends the meter data to Aurora Water using cellular technology
rather than a dedicated radio transmitter. This not only means that we can use existing cell phone towers to read your meter, but we can
also read it more often than just once a month.
Why is the city replacing its water meters?
Our last major system replacement started in 2005 and the meters are beginning to reach their end-of-life.
How many water meters will be replaced?
Over 90,000 water meters will be installed over the four-year program period. The only exception will be our largest water meters,
which have a different maintenance schedule than most residential and commercial meters. These meters will still get the AMI
components.
Does this replacement include my electric and natural gas meters?
No, the program is only for the water meter that Aurora Water is responsible for. Xcel Energy manages electrical and natural gas
meters in Aurora.
Will Aurora Water be raising water rates to pay for this advanced system?
No, Aurora’s water rates will not be increasing to pay for this updated technology. Aurora Water replaces meters every 10
years, so this upgrade was anticipated and included into our capital improvement plan.
Will I now have different water rates based on the time that I use water?
No, Aurora Water does not have time-of-days rates. Unlike electric utilities, we can store water in water tanks to meet our daily peak demands. We do use tiered rates, so the more that you use, the higher the water rate that is effect.
Do I have to be home for the water meter replacement?
No, you do not have to be home during the meter replacement.
Do you have to enter my home or business for this meter replacement?
Since the meter is located in the meter pit, we won’t need access to homes and most businesses. There are a few businesses,
such as shopping malls, that may have meters located inside. Our staff will contact the business in advance.
What if I live in apartment, townhome or condo?
Aurora Water will notify the point of contact we have in our billing records for your apartment manager or HOA. Since the work will
occur at the meter for your building or complex, there should be little impact on the specific units.
Will my water be turned off during the water meter replacement?
Yes, water may be turned off for short time during the meter changeover.
Has this equipment been tested for accuracy and reliability?
Yes, all water meters and associated systems are tested to meet Aurora Water’s exacting standards.
Is this a new technology?
Yes and no. The water meters use a well-tested and reliable technology that’s been around for almost a century. What is new is
the way the water meter data is sent to Aurora Water. The meter sends data on a daily basis, helping us identify leaks and other
issues.
How often will the meter data be collected?
While that data is sent several times a day, the meter will record water use on an quarterly basis. This can help us work with customers on
understanding how water is used and how we can help save you money on your bill.
How do I know that you have my meter readings and not someone else’s?
Aurora Water has been reading meters electronically since the late 1990s. Water meters are uniquely programmed for each
customer’s property.
When will these advanced meters be installed at my home or business?
The water meter replacement program will be phased in over four years, completing in 2024.
How does this new advanced system enhance customer service?
There are many ways that having additional data from your meter can help improve your experience with Aurora Water. We can help
verify water use patterns that may lead to high bill or identify a large or small water leak before it damages your home.
Is this advanced system secure?
Yes, this system uses the same secure technology used in most cell phones.
Does this system reduce RF transmission over the previous technology?
Yes, this system transmits the data for a very short amount of time several times a day using cellular signals. The previous AMR technology had a radio transmitter that transmitted data 24 hours per day, everyday. You can see how this would dramatically reduce the RF transmission times and levels, equivalent to send a text with an image. Remember, the transmitter is located in the meter pit in your front yard, so it's like someone is making a very short cell call from your sidewalk.
What is the expected life cycle for these new advanced water meters?
While the physical meter can last 20 to 25 years, the battery that is used to send the information is warrantied for 20 years.
Who will be installing the advanced water meters?
The meters will be installed by Badger Meter.
How will I know that the technician works for Badger Meter?
They will have signs on their trucks identifying them as contractors for Aurora Water, and will carry ID cards with both Badger Meter’s and Aurora Water’s logos.
Do I need to keep my meter accessible?
Yes, your meter and meter pit must always be free of obstacles, including trees, shrubs and other landscaping materials.
Landscaping or fencing should be kept at least 3-5 feet from the meter pit.
What if my business or home requires a constant supply of water without interruption?
If you have a specific need to have the water on during the meter replacement, please call the Aurora Water Operations Service
Center at 303.326.8645 prior to the meter installation.