Meter Reading and Leak Tech

Automated Meter Reading System

Consolidated Utility District (CUD) has installed an automated meter reading (AMR) system. The system uses wireless radio transmitters to read a customer’s water meter and then transfer the data into our billing system. AMR reduces the need for meter readers to manually gather meter readings each month. Many utilities are using AMR as a way to improve customer service, promote employee safety and control meter reading costs. Benefits include:

  • Improved customer service.
  • Minimizing the need to access customer property.
  • Reducing customer complaints.
  • Reducing the need for customers to read their own meters due to meter access issues.
  • Improved billing accuracy.
  • Improve the ability to identify and notify customers concerning leaks.
  • Employee safety is increased by not having as many vehicles on the road, employees not having to climb fences, avoiding electric fences and fenced in areas with dogs.
  • A reduction in operational costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meter Reading

Keep the area around your water meter clear

When planting trees or shrubs, keep in mind that the root system can become entangled around the underground pipes. This can increase the possibility of pipes breaking which can result in costly water leaks that could go undetected for some time.

Your water meter should be kept clear of shrubbery, trees and low growing bushes. If applicable, please:

  • Trim bushes, trees and grass that may block the way to or that cover the meter.
  • Locate fenced animals or pets in areas away from the water meter.
  • Do not block or cover the meter with cars, trucks, trailers, garbage cans, recycling bins, fences, landscaping materials or gravel.

If you have constructed any type of structure, including a fence, within our easement, please provide an access gate or ladder or relocate the obstruction accordingly.

Please be courteous to your meter reader and mindful of their safety. Meter readers are regularly chased or bitten by dogs, forced to crawl into awkward places and climb over or under obstacles just to read your meter. They just want to do their job safely and effectively and return home to their families just the same as you or I.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Water Leaks

CUD implements a systematic approach to water leak detection. We provide an ongoing program of reducing water loss due to increasing costs of production and reduction in the water supply.

There are estimates that nationwide only 30% of all underground leaks ever come to the surface. By finding and repairing leaks, CUD can effectively reduce the level of unaccounted for water (UAW) throughout the distribution system. There are many different areas where leaks can occur such as service lines, valves, fire hydrants and main lines. Large leaks do not necessarily contribute to a greater volume of lost water, particularly if water reaches the surface. Usually leaks that surface are quickly isolated and repaired. Undetected leaks can lead to large quantities of lost water since these leaks may exist for long periods of time.

Staff

CUD has a leak detection department that is trained in the principles and procedures of leak detection. We use sonic leak detection equipment and a computer corelator which identifies and magnifies the sound of water escaping a pipe. This equipment allows unseen leaks to be detected when water is not coming to the surface. Our staff uses this equipment to perform point to point leak surveys throughout the system on an annual basis. Leaks can be detected by listening on meters, fire hydrants, blow-offs and valves.

Unauthorized Water Use

We make every attempt to assure that all water used in the distribution system is metered and sold. Unauthorized water use occurs whenever someone is using water without a meter. If you suspect someone is using water that is not metered, please call the CUD office. We will send someone to investigate and disconnect the violation. CUD discourages anyone from obtaining water from our system by unauthorized means.

Department Contact:

Kevin Hickerson
Assistant Manager
Telephone: (615) 225-3332
E-mail: khickerson@cudrc.com